The iOS 26 update announced at WWDC 25 isn’t just about the new Liquid Glass redesign. Apple is using this opportunity to redesign some fundamental features in the Phone and Messages apps, something that the company hasn’t done in, well, forever.
Apple is clearly taking inspiration from Google’s Pixel phones here, bringing in call screening features and a new multi-view layout that combines your favorites, recent calls, and voicemails all on one page. It’s the same story in Messages, where you’ll find some Pixel and WhatsApp style features like custom backgrounds.
Apple’s Phone app brings a new view, Call Screening, and Hold Assist
Credit: Apple
First, there’s a new design for the Phone app, and a new tab bar with a big Search icon that could come in handy. The new Phone screen shows your Favorites pinned to the top, and then you’ll see all your recent calls and voicemails in a single view. According to Apple, though, this is going to be an optional feature, so it should be possible to roll back to the old look, although we don’t exactly know how that will work yet.
Next is Call Screening, a feature similar to one on the Google’s Pixel phone series. When you get a call from an unknown number, your iPhone will pick up the call in the background, and will hear what the caller saying. If it’s something actually useful, and not spam, your iPhone will ring, and you’ll see a transcription of what the caller is saying. You can then choose to answer the call, if you wish.
Credit: Apple
Lastly, there’s the Hold Assist feature, which could help save you from hours of hold music. This feature automatically detects hold music and activates a background mode for the call. You are now free to leave the Phone app, or even lock your phone. When an agent connects, your iPhone will call you, and will also tell you when what the Agent said while you were away.
Live translate in phone, messages, and everywhere
iMessage chats are about to get livelier, too. Like on WhatsApp and Telegram, you’ll now be able to set custom backgrounds for any chat. There’s also a new Polls feature, something that’s really popular on WhatsApp.
In group chats, you’ll also finally see typing indicators. And you’ll be able to send a receive Apple Cash directly in group chats.
The Live Translate feature is also coming to Messages, so you’ll be able to automatically translate audio messages and text on the fly.
Apple is even bringing a spin on its call screening features to Messages. Texts from unknown senders will be sent to a dedicated new folder, and they won’t be added to your main texts list until you accept them. However, this won’t apply to things like one-time passwords, delivery updates and other important information.
