Apple iOS 26.1 Beta: New Features and Future Roadmap
Apple has begun testing the iOS 26.1 beta, bringing expanded AI features and language support just a month after the main iOS 26 release. This update sets the stage for major additions like a Digital Passport, enhanced RCS messaging, and a smarter Siri planned for the full iOS 26 cycle.
Key Takeaways
- iOS 26.1 beta expands Apple Intelligence and Live Translation to more languages
- Digital Passport for US Wallet app expected later in 2025
- RCS upgrades with end-to-end encryption still in development
- Personalized Siri with contextual awareness coming in iOS 26.4
- New emoji collection based on Unicode 17.0 arriving early 2026
What’s New in iOS 26.1 Beta
The current beta focuses on refining Apple Intelligence and Live Translation, making these AI tools available in more languages. Users will also see minor improvements across native apps including Apple Music, Calendar, Photos, Clock, and Safari.
Digital Passport: Your ID in Wallet
Apple plans to introduce a digital US passport in the Wallet app later this year. This feature will work at select TSA checkpoints for identity verification within the United States. The company emphasizes it will be secure, private, and REAL ID compliant, though it won’t replace physical passports for international travel.
RCS Messaging Upgrade Timeline
Apple continues to develop end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, having confirmed support for the RCS Universal Profile 3.0 standard. When implemented, iPhone users will gain features like:
- End-to-end encryption for better privacy
- In-line message replies
- Message editing and unsending capabilities
- Full Tapback reaction support
The delay in rollout is likely due to the need for coordination with cellular carriers.
Siri’s Major Upgrade Coming
Apple CEO Tim Cook confirmed “good progress” on a more personalized Siri experience, scheduled for iOS 26.4 in spring 2026. The new Siri will feature contextual understanding, on-screen awareness, and deeper app integration. Early demonstrations showed Siri accessing Mail and Messages data to answer personal queries about family travel details and reservations.
Potential Satellite Weather Feature
Code discovered in early iOS 26 betas suggests Apple is developing “Weather via Satellite” functionality. This would display weather information without requiring Wi-Fi or cellular connections. While unconfirmed, it could join Apple’s existing free satellite services like Emergency SOS and Roadside Assistance.
New Emoji Collection
Following tradition, iOS 26.4 will introduce new emoji based on Unicode 17.0. The expected additions include Trombone, Treasure Chest, Distorted Face, Hairy Creature (Bigfoot), Fight Cloud, Apple Core, Orca, Ballet Dancers, and Landslide. These typically arrive in Apple’s March updates, placing their release in early 2026.
