Transparent elements and lighting

iOS 26 is codenamed Solarium within the company. According to rumors, the system should adopt the design of visionOS, where translucent menus were introduced for better communication with the environment. On phones, this solution will refresh the visual style of the OS. The panels let in background shades, creating a matte glass effect.

For example, content in the Photos app will be visible through the controls in a blurred form. In addition, light glare and reflections on icons react to interaction with the gadget. The same flashlight and camera buttons are illuminated differently (depending on the tilt of the device). And dynamic shadows on widgets and desktop shortcuts will enhance the illusion of depth. They can even add adaptive color rendering so that the icons match the wallpaper.

Floating menus and simplifications

“Floating” navigation panels are another key feature of the design code. Due to shadows and blur, they will look slightly raised above the main content, adding volume to the system. All objects will be made more rounded. This is relevant for windows and various menus, which can acquire an oval shape.

However, it is unlikely that the icons will become completely round, as in visionOS, in order to preserve the established style of iOS and the difference from Android. Another modification will affect the visual simplicity of the interface, as reported by Mark Gurman from Bloomberg. Changes in typography are possible: different fonts and increased line spacing. 

In visionOS, the spacing between elements has been increased to make it easier to control with your eyes. The iPhone may also optimize this aspect: the menus will not be so saturated with options for a less cluttered look. In general, the above principles will be relevant across all Apple platforms so that the design is consistent across the entire ecosystem.