iOS 26 Leak Outlines Major iPhone Features Planned for 2026

A leaked internal build of iOS 26 has revealed several major features Apple is expected to roll out across multiple updates throughout 2026. The build, reportedly reviewed by MacRumors and Macworld, appears to function as a long-term development roadmap rather than a snapshot of a single software release.

While Apple has not officially confirmed these details, the leak provides valuable insight into the company’s software priorities, including artificial intelligence, health services, security, and accessibility.

Below are the key features currently referenced in the leaked iOS 26 build.

Key Takeaways

• iOS 26 is designed as a feature-based rollout, not a single major update
• Apple is doubling down on AI, health services, and security
• Siri’s biggest AI upgrade is expected in early 2026
• Health+ could become Apple’s most advanced health subscription yet
• Accessibility improvements remain a major focus

Health+ Service and Health App Redesign

Apple is reportedly developing Health+, a subscription-based service that would offer AI-powered health insights, nutrition guidance, and medical recommendations. The service is expected to launch in spring 2026, alongside a redesigned Health app featuring a simplified interface and improved data entry.

The build also references an internal feature labeled “Gumdrop,” though its purpose remains unclear.

Siri AI Upgrade Expected in Early 2026

The leak reiterates Apple’s plans to release a significantly upgraded version of Siri. The assistant is expected to gain stronger contextual awareness and improved conversational capabilities, with a rollout targeted for March or April 2026.

Previous reports suggest the system may rely on a customized version of Google’s Gemini AI.

Live Captions Language Expansion

Live Captions, which provide real-time transcription of spoken audio, are expected to support additional languages. The internal build points to WWDC 2026 as the likely venue for announcing the expansion.

Credit Card Autofill in Third-Party Apps

Apple is preparing to extend iCloud Keychain credit card autofill to third-party apps. The feature would allow card details to be filled automatically and prompt users to save new cards entered into apps.

The change may arrive in late 2026 or as part of iOS 26.4.

New Apple ID Security Validation

iOS 26.4 is also expected to introduce a new security system that verifies a device’s integrity before allowing access to Apple ID and iCloud services. Devices that have been modified or jailbroken may be restricted from signing in.

App-Level Updates Across iOS

Several Apple apps are referenced for incremental updates:

• Freeform is expected to gain folder support

• Journal may introduce follow-up writing prompts

• Photos could add “Connections” and “Shared Collections” later in the year

• Apple TV app may receive a new Sports Tier subscription

• Podcasts may support transcript translation and spoken playback

Accessibility Improvements

The leaked build also highlights multiple accessibility updates, including:

• Tilt to Scroll

• Enhanced Background Sounds

• Additional Apple Watch controls

• A 30-second rewind option for Live Listen

These changes are expected to roll out gradually throughout 2026.

Outlook

If the leaked roadmap proves accurate, iOS 26 will be delivered as a series of feature-focused updates rather than a single major release. The changes emphasize health services, artificial intelligence, account security, and accessibility improvements.

Apple has not officially commented on the leak, and features may change or be delayed before release.

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FAQs

Q. When will iOS 26 be released?

A. iOS 26 is expected to begin rolling out in stages starting in early 2026, with features arriving through multiple updates.

Q. What is Health+ in iOS 26?

A. Health+ is a rumored subscription service offering AI-powered health insights, nutrition advice, and medical recommendations.

Q. Will Siri get a major AI upgrade in iOS 26?

A. Yes, the leak suggests Siri will receive a significant AI upgrade in March or April 2026, improving contextual awareness and conversation.

Q. Is Apple using Google Gemini for Siri?

A. Reports suggest Apple may use a customized version of Google’s Gemini AI, though this has not been officially confirmed.

Q. What new security features are coming to iOS 26?

A. iOS 26.4 may introduce device integrity checks to prevent compromised devices from accessing Apple ID and iCloud services.