iOS 26 includes more than 200 new features and changes, with the headline upgrade being the Liquid Glass design overhaul. While many of the major updates have already been highlighted, there are also several smaller but useful improvements that are easy to miss.
Here’s a closer look at some of the lesser-known features in iOS 26.
Select Part of a Text Message
You can now copy only part of a message instead of the entire text. By long-pressing a message and choosing Select, you can highlight and copy just the portion you need—such as a link, address, or code.
Save Recipes to Reminders
iOS 26 makes it easier to save cooking instructions and ingredients directly into Reminders using Apple Intelligence suggestions. When sharing text from supported apps or websites, Siri Suggestions can automatically organize it into shopping lists or step-by-step instructions.
Set Default Apps for File Types
The Files app now allows you to choose default apps for specific file types like PDFs, images, and documents. You can also open a file once in another app or permanently assign a preferred app via the Get Info → Always Open With option.
Custom Ringtones Made Easy
Any MP3 or M4A file under 30 seconds stored in the Files app can now be set as a ringtone directly. No more need for GarageBand—just use the Share Sheet and select Use as Ringtone.
Messages Drafts Folder
A new Drafts section in Messages stores unsent texts so you can easily return to them later. It appears in the Filters menu and only shows up when drafts exist.
Improved Panorama Capture
Panorama mode has been improved under the hood, making it easier to move the camera faster without producing blurry or distorted images.
Smarter Video Search in Photos
When searching in the Photos app, results now include specific video frames that match your query. Tapping a result takes you directly to the exact moment in the video.
Camera Lens Cleaning Alerts
iPhone can now detect when the rear camera lens is smudged and prompt you to clean it for better photo quality. This feature is available on iPhone 15 and later.
Match Home Screen Icons to Case
If you use a MagSafe case, you can now match your Home Screen icon tint to your case color for a more coordinated look. You can also match icons to your device color.
Event Details in Photos
Photos taken at concerts or events can now display related information such as artist details, top songs, and upcoming tour dates. This feature appears after indexing and only works with supported images.
Call Back Reminders
Missed calls can be turned into reminders with a swipe in the Phone app. You can set reminders for later the same day, the next day, or a custom time, and they sync with the Reminders app.
Keep Audio in Headphones
A new setting prevents AirPods audio from automatically switching to other Bluetooth devices like car systems or speakers.
Updated Swipe Back Gesture
The back gesture has been improved so you can swipe right from anywhere on the screen—not just from the edge—to return to the previous screen in most apps.
Final Note
These smaller additions, combined with major features like Liquid Glass and system redesigns, help make iOS 26 a much more polished and flexible update overall.