iOS 26 is here: Here's why you shouldn't delay upgrading

Apple has officially released iOS 26, bringing significant improvements in performance, interface, and features to iPhone users. This is not just a regular software update, but is also considered an important milestone in the development history of the iPhone, when Apple decided to make a bold leap from iOS 19 to iOS 26. "Skipping" seven generations of software numbering shows that Apple wants to send a strong message: iOS 26 is not only innovative but also represents a comprehensive transformation, creating a platform that is strong enough to compete with Android.

In this release, Apple not only focuses on familiar factors such as improving processing speed or enhancing security but is also willing to listen and accept opinions from consumers. A series of new features on iOS 26 clearly shows this effort, from optimizing the user interface experience, adding AI features, to expanding the ability to interact with third-party applications. This is something that is rare in Apple, when in the past the company often maintained a "closed" philosophy and only allowed its ecosystem to develop in its own direction.

At the same time, iPadOS 16 was also introduced, bringing significant upgrades to the iPad with a multitasking experience that is almost similar to a computer, but for the iPhone, iOS 26 is really the focus. Longtime iPhone users, as well as those who have experienced Android in parallel, can easily see the remarkable changes in this version. After more than a decade of using both platforms, I personally think that iOS 26 has helped the iPhone become more competitive with Android, even opening a new era for the Apple ecosystem. If you are still hesitating about upgrading your iPhone to iOS 26, below are the reasons why this is a completely worthy decision.

1. The interface that turns old iPhones into new ones is called Liquid Glass

One of the most beloved improvements in iOS 26 is Liquid Glass: a completely new translucent interface that transforms the entire visual experience on iPhone. Liquid Glass is more than just a blurred background effect, it’s a complete change to how menus, notifications, toolbars, and widgets appear on the screen. Thanks to the subtle translucency effect, the iPhone looks like a completely new device, even if it’s a few generations old.

In the early testing phase, Liquid Glass was criticized for affecting battery life, as the transparency effects required more graphics processing resources. However, Apple listened to feedback and refined it through each beta, until the official version, the effect has achieved a good balance between aesthetics and practical usability. Current users can enjoy a smooth, luxurious experience without worrying too much about battery.

Interestingly, Liquid Glass also changes the way users interact with their devices. With this interface, iOS 26 brings a modern, airy feel, while maintaining the inherent intuitiveness of iOS. When compared to Android, many people admit that Liquid Glass brings a more premium feel, because Apple not only copied the interface style of its competitors but also refined it to achieve its own signature level of sophistication.

2. More thoughtful and useful experience in every detail

If in previous versions, Apple was often criticized for being "difficult" because of framing the experience, then in iOS 26, the company has reconsidered every aspect of the operating system, from the menu approach to the display of options.

For example, when you press and hold a phone number, instead of just a few basic options, you can now see shortcuts to call from any active SIM. This is especially useful for dual SIM users.

The Phone app has also been completely overhauled. Instead of having separate tabs for call logs, missed calls, and voice messages, they are now all displayed on a single screen. This approach not only saves time, but also feels more convenient and consistent. If users feel unfamiliar, they can still easily revert to the old interface, but it shows flexibility and understanding of diverse needs.

In particular, iOS 26 integrates AI into the Phone app to intelligently filter calls. This feature helps identify and block spam calls, and also displays notes about the content left by the caller. This helps users no longer miss important notifications, even when not directly answering the phone.

Another highlight is the ability to deeply integrate with third-party applications. From the default dialer interface of the iPhone, users can easily choose to call via WhatsApp, Telegram, Microsoft Teams or Messenger, instead of having to open each application separately. This is the clearest proof that Apple has become less "picky" and accepted to expand to integrate with the general trend.

3. iOS 26: The bridge between iPhone and Android

For years, the difference between iOS and Android has been a controversial topic. Android users often pride themselves on the platform’s flexibility, diversity, and feature-richness, while iOS users value stability, security, and a consistent experience. However, with iOS 26, Apple has shown a significant shift in thinking: instead of trying to distance itself, iOS 26 begins to blur the lines with Android while still retaining its core values.

Features like interface customization, improved widgets, expanded integration of external applications, or AI call filtering are all things that Android has been doing for a long time. However, Apple does not simply copy but also refines to enhance the experience. iPhone users can now enjoy the familiar convenience of Android while maintaining the inherent stability of iOS.

This is a strategic move. Because as Android smartphones become more and more powerful, Apple needs to make changes to retain old users and attract more people who are familiar with Android. And iOS 26 is the confirmation that the iPhone is ready to compete more fairly than ever.

4. iPadOS 16 and synchronization in the Apple ecosystem

Along with iOS 26, Apple also officially introduced iPadOS 16. The biggest highlight is Stage Manager, which allows managing multiple application windows on the same screen, dragging and dropping, and changing the size flexibly. Combined with the ability to support external screens, iPad can now function as a real laptop, providing a more spacious and professional workspace.

In addition, iPadOS 16 also improves the feature of opening multiple documents at the same time in the same application, which is very useful for those who often process documents, spreadsheets or research documents. Apple Pencil is also optimized with faster response and smart note-taking capabilities, making iPad an ideal tool for learning and creativity.

What makes iPadOS 16 even more special is the synchronization with iOS 26, macOS, and watchOS. Users can start a task on iPhone, continue on iPad, and finish on MacBook without interruption. Apps like Notes, Calendar, and Safari all sync almost instantly, making the whole experience seamless and consistent.

Thanks to this combination, the Apple ecosystem becomes stronger than ever. The iPad not only plays the role of an entertainment or learning device, but also becomes an important link in a chain of supporting devices, helping users work, connect and create more conveniently and smoothly.

5. Conclusion

iOS 26 is not just a simple operating system update, but also an important turning point for the future of iPhone. With Liquid Glass that makes old iPhones feel like they're reborn, a more thoughtful experience in every detail, deep integration of intelligent AI, and the ability to extend to external applications, Apple has proven that it is willing to innovate to meet the needs of modern users.

After more than a decade, iOS 26 has brought the iPhone not only to its former premium status, but also closer to the flexibility and utility that Android once held. If you are an iPhone user, upgrading to iOS 26 will definitely be worth the experience, whether your device is the latest model or just an iPhone that has been released for many years.