For many months, Apple kept shipping security updates for iOS 18 even after releasing iOS 26, but now the company is finally pushing people to update to the newer version, as reported by Red94. Apple changed its mind after hearing user complaints about bugs in the initial version of iOS 26.0, which caused problems for many people.
New features in iOS 26.1
The company fixed these issues and now iOS 26.1 works fine for most people. It is stable and ready for everyone to use. iOS 26.1 also adds new Liquid Glass controls, where you can choose between solid or tinted styles. This makes the screen easier to see in sunlight. Live Translation now supports more languages and can even work through AirPods. This helps you talk to people in different languages in real time.
The update adds Swipe to Stop Alarms, so you can swipe instead of tap to dismiss alarms and timers. The Photos app gets a clearer video cleaner and better navigation, helping people scroll through photos and videos more fluidly. According to the Red94 report, iOS 26 itself is a big redesign and Apple’s biggest system change since iOS 13, with modern-looking controls and faster performance.
The new Liquid Glass design makes the phone’s interface appear more dynamic and easier to read, improving the overall user feel. Apple Intelligence also comes with iOS 26, bringing private on-device AI features that don’t send your data outside of your phone. Messaging improves with new options like polls and custom backgrounds, helping make conversations more fun and interactive.
iOS 26.1 Update Recommendation
CarPlay gets new features in iOS 26, making navigation and driving controls better than in iOS 18, according to the Red94 report. If you have an iPhone 11 or any newer iPhone, Apple says you should update now because this software is safe and works well.
Apple only offers a “recommended” update when it knows the version is stable. iOS 26.1 has reached that point. This update has been available since November 3, so major issues have already been found and fixed. Apple says you should skip the update only if you use some weird iOS 18-only apps or settings that may not work on iOS 26. For almost everyone, iOS 26.1 is safer, faster, and better for everyday use than iOS 18.
Apple officially said, “iOS 26 introduces new features to CarPlay, Apple Music, Maps, and Wallet, as well as Apple Games, an all-new app that gives gamers a curated experience,” as stated in the Red94 report.
Frequently asked questions
P1. Should I update my iPhone from iOS 18 to iOS 26.1?
Yes, Apple now recommends updating because iOS 26.1 is stable, more secure, and has many new features.
P2. What new features do I get with iOS 26.1?
You get Liquid Glass controls, better photos, more live translation languages, Slide to Stop, and improved system performance.
