New iPhones Get Exclusive iOS 26 Features

iOS 26 is here, and it's bringing some cool new stuff, but not all iPhones will get the same treatment. Some features are only for the newer models. Let's break it down.

Visual Intelligence for Screenshots

This handy tool can analyze what you capture, making it super useful for shopping or adding events to your calendar. But you'll need an iPhone 15 Pro or newer to use it.

Live Translation

Language barriers? Not anymore. Live translation is now in Messages, FaceTime, and the Phone app. It translates messages as you type, provides live captions on FaceTime, and even speaks translations aloud during phone calls. Again, you'll need an iPhone 15 Pro or newer for this one.

Lock Screen Makeover

Your Lock Screen is getting a makeover. iOS 26 brings a new 3D effect that makes your photo come to life when you move your iPhone. This feature is available on iPhone 12 or newer models.

Shortcuts App Upgrades

Shortcuts app users, rejoice! iOS 26 brings new actions that tap into AI features. You can create images, summarize text, and more. But yes, you guessed it, you'll need an iPhone 15 Pro or newer.

Smarter Reminders

The Reminders app is getting smarter too. It can now suggest new tasks based on your messages and emails, and even organize your task lists into different sections. You'll need an iPhone 15 Pro or newer for these features.

Apple Wallet Upgrade

Apple Wallet is getting an upgrade. It can now pull order tracking details from your emails, so you don't have to rely on merchants to support the feature. This one is also exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro or newer models.

Genmoji and Image Playground Upgrades

Genmoji and Image Playground are getting upgrades. You can now create Genmoji by mixing two emoji or writing a description. Image Playground integrates ChatGPT's image generation powers, unlocking new style options. These features are also only for the newer iPhones.

Messages App Improvements

Lastly, the Messages app is getting some love. You can create custom backgrounds using Image Playground, and get suggestions for polls. But you'll need an iPhone 15 Pro or newer to use these features.

So, if you're rocking an older iPhone, you might feel left out. But hey, that's the way it goes with tech. Always something new to look forward to, right?