Apple is set to unveil iOS 26 at WWDC 2025, and reports suggest exciting new features for Messages, Apple Music, Notes, and CarPlay, including automatic translations, polls, and a fresh new design.
iOS 26 Adds Useful New Features to Messages, Music, CarPlay, and Notes
Apple is just days away from revealing iOS 26 at WWDC 2025, and a new report by 9to5Mac, along with a preview from Bloomberg, highlights some lesser-known features we’ll be seeing soon. While most of the attention is on the visual overhaul, reportedly inspired by visionOS, there’s a lot more under the hood for everyday apps like Messages and Music.
Let’s break it down.
Messages Gets Smarter and More Social
iMessage users have long asked for more interactive features, and iOS 26 is finally delivering. Based on leaks:
- Polls are coming to the Messages app, letting users quickly gather opinions from friends or groups, similar to what’s already possible on WhatsApp or Telegram. Apple is also testing AI integration, which could suggest poll options based on the conversation.
- Live Translation for both incoming and outgoing messages will be a feature thanks to AI.
- Background images will be customizable and will sync across all devices in a chat. That means if you pick a theme for your conversation, everyone in the thread will see it.
These new additions aim to make iMessage feel more modern and fun.
Apple Music: Animated Lock Screen Album Art
The Now Playing interface on the Lock Screen will get a visual upgrade with full-screen animated album artwork. Already seen within the Apple Music app, these animations will now extend to the Lock Screen for a more immersive music experience.
Notes App: Markdown Export Is Finally Coming
For productivity lovers, Markdown export support is on the way to the Notes app in iOS 26. This has been a long-requested feature and will be especially useful for those who need to move between writing platforms or apps.
CarPlay Gets the iOS 26 Makeover Too
CarPlay isn’t being left behind. Apple is reportedly working on a new UI for CarPlay, matching the glassy, transparent aesthetic of iOS 26. This will likely roll out across all compatible vehicles, not just the upcoming CarPlay Ultra systems.
Final Thoughts
While Apple’s keynote will spotlight big visual changes, these smaller updates could be just as impactful in day-to-day use. Polls, animated album art, Markdown support, and a fresh CarPlay design all help modernize the iOS experience in subtle but meaningful ways.
Stay tuned for the full announcement on June 9 during the WWDC 2025 keynote.
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