iOS 26 and 26.1 added hundreds of new tweaks and under-the-radar improvements that Apple never talks about. In this video, I walk through 20 hidden iOS 26 features you should be using right now — from powerful Message tools to AirPods microphone tricks, new alarm controls, performance settings, and security options.
If you enjoy videos like this covering Apple software, hardware, and hidden settings, be sure to subscribe and comment below with your favorite iOS 26 feature!
🛒 TOP DEALS:
🔊 BlueAnt Soundblade – https://amzn.to/3KyLnnB ($89)
👶 Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor – https://amzn.to/3KprLCg ($193)
🔋 Kuxiu K1 Ultra – https://kuxiu.co/products/kuxiu-k1-ultra-power-bank?ref=bjyfkxdn ($79)
⌚ Spigen Classic C1 Stand (Apple Watch) – https://amzn.to/4pC1krZ ($10)
💳 Puncube Wallet – https://puncube.com/products/mech-wallet?ref=FERNANDOSILVA ($69)
🖱️ Logitech MX Master 3S – https://amzn.to/4peGvmO ($79)
💡 Shiftcam Ring Light – https://amzn.to/3Y1whtS ($71)
💻 Mac Mini Pro Case – https://amzn.to/4p4ZiRm ($39)
👜 Foldie Foldable Crossbody – https://amzn.to/4rw41NG ($39)
🍼 MomCosy Bottle Warmer – https://amzn.to/4iBhpMy ($63)
🏡 ecobee Smart Thermostat – https://amzn.to/44BiyxF ($104)
✨ Govee Wall Pixel Lights – https://amzn.to/4iw84VX ($79)
Join this channel to get access to perks:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChjRM_qQAaOAiLNbOGbYcRA/join
## Subscribe to our Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP3DOW_eX2AwO_whrINOi-TuAdgsSR83i
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-overtime/id1727206360
## Follow Fernando
https://www.twitter.com/nandoprince93
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 – Intro: Why iOS 26 / 26.1 is more than Liquid Glass
00:39 – Messages got a huge upgrade
01:10 – Polls in group chats (real decision making right in Messages)
01:30 – Create and vote on custom poll options
01:45 – Add custom chat backgrounds in Messages
02:09 – Partial text selection in iMessage (copy only what you want)
02:39 – Live translation in Messages (send + receive in different languages)
03:10 – AirPods upgrades: Use AirPods as a mic in the Camera app
03:32 – Turn on Voice Isolation while recording video
03:52 – Use external USB-C microphones directly in Camera
04:25 – Disable “swipe to open camera” on the Lock Screen
05:13 – Prevent accidental camera launches
05:26 – Liquid Glass settings: Clear vs. Tinted
05:58 – NEW: Liquid Glass translucency slider on the Lock Screen (26.2)
06:39 – Clock app: Custom snooze duration (1–15 minutes!)
07:35 – Slide to stop alarms (and why some people hate it)
07:56 – Return to “tap to stop” via Accessibility
08:12 – Adaptive Power: Why it makes scrolling laggy
08:43 – Turn off Adaptive Power for smoother performance
09:13 – “Background Security Improvements” explained
09:30 – Silent security patches installed automatically
10:04 – Phone app gets powerful new tools
10:19 – Type to Siri during a phone call
10:32 – Call recording / live translation / Hold Assist
11:02 – Auto-detect hold status in Settings
11:35 – Camera: Lens cleaning suggestions to prevent blurry shots
12:16 – Outro: Which hidden feature is your favorite?
12:37 – iOS 26.2 preview + customization commentary
12:50 – Thanks for watching!
#PrimeDay2025 #AppleDeals #MacBookAir #iPadPro #iPadMini #AppleWatchUltra #AirPodsPro #TechDeals
## Affiliate disclaimer
FTC: We use income-earning affiliate links and participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. For more details, visit: https://9to5mac.com/about/#affiliate

