Vetted by NeuralPress's Multi-Agent Verifier for strict factual validity and event relevance. Our compliance engine cross-checks and filters search results to ensure zero false correlations or misleading content.
Primary Sources
iOS 26's new Phone app won me over with two excellent features
iOS 26 overhauled one of the iPhone’s original and most iconic apps: the Phone app. While I’ve never enjoyed phone calls, two excellent new features make them a lot better in iOS 26—and have made me a big fan of the app. Phone app was redesigned in iOS 26, but the best changes have nothing to do with the design Apple doesn’t introduce big redesigns for apps very often. And its recent track record for major changes isn’t the best. For example, iOS 18’s Photos redesign proved highly controversial, leading Apple to walk back some of the core changes. Similarly, iOS 18.2’s Mail app overhaul wasn’t the best received. In iOS 26, the Phone app was the latest core app to get redesigned. I don’t dislike the changes, but they haven’t exactly sold me either. After Apple’s experiences with Photos and Mail, I’m not surprised the company shipped an option to revert to the old Phone design right from the start. But my indifference to the new design aside, Apple’s Phone app has become an absolute favorite update for me in iOS 26 thanks to two new features: Call Screening Hold Assist Call Screening and Hold Assist features make iOS 26’s Phone app one of my favorite updates Call Screening and Hold Assist are both opt-in features, so make sure you have them enabled by visiting Settings ⇾ Apps ⇾ Phone. Apple offers a few different options for screening, but I’ve chosen the ‘Ask Reason for Calling’ setting under ‘Screen Unknown Callers.’ Here’s what it does: “Calls from unsaved numbers will be asked for more information before iPhone rings.” This is a fantastic change that meaningfully cuts down on spam calls. Now, I don’t have to waste time rejecting telemarketers’ offers, or have my focus stolen by unwanted calls. I also never have to wonder whether a call is worth answering or not. For important calls, my Lock Screen shows me who is calling and why, right when the ringer kicks in. And if it’s a spam call, I won’t even get bothered by a ringer. Hold Assist is another great addition that reduces the pain of feeling stuck on hold forever. You’ll find it labeled ‘Hold Assist Detection’ in Settings. Here’s Apple’s description: “Automatically detect when you are placed on hold, so you can step away. iPhone will then notify you when it’s time to pick up.” You can also hit the three-dot icon on the call screen and manually enable Hold Assist from there. These two features, combined with the beautiful new ringtones in iOS 26, have made the Phone app one of my favor...
iOS 26.5: New Features, Release Date, and Everything You Need to Know ...
The Quiet Evolution of iOS 26.5: A Sneak Peek at Apple's Subtle Innovations Apple’s latest iOS update, iOS 26.5, might not be the headline-grabber that iOS 27 promises to be, but it’s a fascinating study in how the company quietly refines its ecosystem. Personally, I think this update is a masterclass in incremental innovation—small changes that collectively hint at Apple’s broader strategy. Let’s dive in. Apple Maps: Ads and Recommendations—A Double-Edged Sword One thing that immediately stands out is Apple’s decision to introduce ads to Apple Maps. Yes, ads. What many people don’t realize is that this move isn’t just about monetization; it’s about competing with Google Maps in a way that feels distinctly Apple-esque. The company is framing these ads as “local suggestions,” tying them to your location and search history. From my perspective, this is Apple’s attempt to strike a balance between utility and revenue without alienating users. But here’s the kicker: the new Suggested Places feature feels like a Trojan horse. On the surface, it’s a helpful tool that recommends trending spots based on your behavior. However, if you take a step back and think about it, this is Apple laying the groundwork for a more personalized—and potentially ad-driven—experience. What this really suggests is that Apple is testing the waters for a future where Maps becomes a platform for targeted local marketing. RCS Encryption: A Step Forward, But Why Now? The return of RCS encryption in iOS 26.5 is a detail that I find especially interesting. Apple first teased this feature in iOS 26.4 but held off on its release. Now, it’s back and enabled by default. What makes this particularly fascinating is the timing. With Google pushing RCS as the universal messaging standard, Apple’s move feels both defensive and strategic. In my opinion, Apple is trying to position itself as the privacy leader in messaging, even as it resists adopting RCS fully. By enabling end-to-end encryption for RCS, Apple is sending a message: We care about your privacy, even when communicating with Android users. But here’s the broader implication: this could be Apple’s way of controlling the narrative around RCS, ensuring it’s seen as a secure option without fully embracing it. App Store’s New Subscription Model: A Global Exception The introduction of a 12-month commitment option for monthly subscriptions is a smart move—but only if you’re outside the U.S. or Singapore. What many people don’t realize is...
No one is ever going to convince me that an Android phone is better ...
Know this, I will never put myself in a position where I have to use anything other than an iphone. You could not PAY me to switch. - Kim Do you agree? Listen ...
My iPhone Gave Me A Panic Attack Over A Update (Read ... - Reddit
Latest iOS version recommendations. Best practices for updating iPhones. Top iOS apps for productivity in 2023. Best hidden features in iOS 17. Open App.
