Apple’s iOS 26 only launched last month, but the next update is already in the works. The iOS 26.1 beta is currently in testing, introducing expanded support for Apple Intelligence and Live Translation, as well as smaller updates to native apps like Apple Music, Calendar, Photos, Clock, and Safari.
While this beta focuses on minor improvements, Apple has a long list of features planned for the broader iOS 26 software cycle, including major additions like Digital Passport, RCS upgrades, and a more personalized Siri experience.
Expanded Apple Intelligence and Live Translation
iOS 26.1 expands the availability of Apple Intelligence and Live Translation to more languages, improving accessibility for international users. These AI-powered tools continue to evolve as part of Apple’s broader device intelligence efforts, promising smarter, more contextual user experiences.
Digital passport will be available later this year
Apple is preparing to allow users to add a digital version of their U.S. passport to the Wallet app later in 2025. According to Apple, this feature will support identity verification at certain TSA checkpoints in the United States, although it will not replace physical passports for international travel.
The company emphasizes that the feature will be secure, private, and compliant with REAL ID standards. Users will also be able to use their digital ID to verify their age and identity in apps, online and in retail stores.
RCS upgrades are still in development
Apple has yet to roll out the promised end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, despite confirming support for the RCS Universal Profile 3.0 standard. Once available, this will bring iPhone users closer to feature parity with iMessage, including:
- End-to-end encryption
- Online answers
- Editing and not sending messages
- Full Tapback Reactions
RCS (Rich Communication Services) was first added to the iPhone with iOS 18, but Apple needs to coordinate with carriers to implement the latest standard, which could explain the delay.
A smarter, more personalized Siri on the way
Apple CEO Tim Cook recently confirmed that the company is making “good progress” on a more personalized version of Siri, which is expected to debut with iOS 26.4 in spring 2026.
The upgraded Siri will offer contextual understanding, on-screen recognition and deeper app integration. Demonstrations showed Siri accessing data from Mail and Messages to respond to personal queries, such as checking flight details or a family member’s reservations.
Satellite weather is still a secret
Code found in early beta versions of iOS 26 hinted at a “Satellite weather” feature, which could display weather information even without a Wi-Fi or cellular connection. While Apple hasn’t officially confirmed or released this feature, it could eventually join the company’s suite of satellite services, such as emergency SOS, messaging, and roadside assistance.
Apple continues to offer these satellite services for free, recently extending free access for one year for iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 users.
New Emoji expected in iOS 26.4
Following Apple’s tradition, iOS 26.4 is expected to bring a new batch of emoji based on Unicode 17.0. New additions planned by the Unicode Consortium include:
- Apple core
- Orca
- Ballet dancers
- Landslide
Apple usually releases new emoji in its March updates, so users can probably expect these models to arrive in early 2026.
