iOS 26 Includes These Five Smaller Features You Might Have Missed
Five Hidden Gems in iOS 26: Features You Might Have Missed
The initial excitement surrounding the first iOS 26 beta may be fading, but there are still plenty of exciting discoveries to be made. This article dives into five smaller, yet noteworthy features you might have missed in the latest iOS update.
1. Emoji Puzzle Fun with Apple News+
For Apple News+ subscribers in the U.S. and Canada, a brand new emoji game awaits! As detailed in this MacRumors article, this engaging puzzle challenges players to complete words and phrases using emojis. This is the fifth game added to the Apple News+ lineup, joining existing favorites like Crossword, Crossword Mini, Quartiles, and Sudoku. If you're an Apple News+ subscriber, be sure to check it out for a fun, brain-teasing break.
2. Weather Predictions, Even Off the Grid: Satellite Weather Data
iOS 26 introduces a game-changing feature: weather information via satellite. This means you can access up-to-date weather forecasts even when you're beyond the reach of Wi-Fi or cellular networks. As reported by MacRumors contributor Aaron Perris, the code referencing this feature was found in the first iOS 26 beta, though it wasn't immediately functional. Keep an eye out for future beta releases; this feature is expected to be activated soon.
3. Create Custom Ringtones Effortlessly
Tired of relying on GarageBand to create custom ringtones? iOS 26 simplifies the process. Now, you can easily set custom ringtones directly from the Files app. Simply locate your chosen MP3 or M4A audio file (ensure it's under 30 seconds), tap the share button, select "More," and choose "Use as Ringtone." Your new ringtone will then appear in the Settings app under Sounds & Haptics → Ringtone. While Apple continues to offer 30-second song ringtones for $1.29 via the iTunes Store, this new feature provides a convenient, free alternative.
4. Digital Passport: Secure Identity Verification on Your iPhone
iOS 26 introduces a digital version of your U.S. passport, as detailed in this MacRumors article. After creating a Digital ID within the Apple Wallet app based on your physical passport, you can use it for identity verification at select TSA checkpoints during domestic travel. It’s important to remember that this Digital ID is not a replacement for your physical passport and cannot be used for international travel. Apple emphasizes that the Digital ID is secure, private, and compliant with REAL ID standards. Beyond TSA checkpoints, this Digital ID can also be used for age and identity verification in various apps, online platforms, and retail stores.
5. Precise Text Selection in Messages
A seemingly small, but significant improvement arrives in the Messages app. iOS 26 introduces a "Select" option, allowing you to precisely select and copy specific portions of text within a message bubble. Previous iOS versions only allowed copying the entire message bubble. This simple addition significantly enhances text management within the Messages app, making it easier to share specific parts of conversations.
This article, "iOS 26 Includes These Five Smaller Features You Might Have Missed" first appeared on MacRumors.com
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