Apple released version 26.1 for its core operating systems—including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches—in the early hours of Tuesday, marking the first substantial point-release since the initial launch of the Version 26 systems in mid-September. The central addition in the update is a belatedly introduced master switch to customize the relatively new Liquid Glass Design. Users can now navigate to the settings and select the "Tinted" option, which reduces the transparency of the glassy user interface elements. This adjustment is intended to improve the legibility of notifications, particularly on the lock screen. Furthermore, the fresh version brings several functional enhancements to the operating systems, such as finer configuration options for local recordings of video calls and a new gesture designed to accelerate song switching within Apple Music, reports The WP Times, citing heise.
For the tablet operating system, iPadOS, the Slide Over view that was unexpectedly absent in version 26.0 has been reinstated, albeit in a modified format. iPadOS also gains support for additional commands for window and application management, familiar from macOS, specifically the "Quit" and "Hide" functions. Apple stated that the AutoMix transitions within Apple Music are now also supported during audio output via AirPlay. Moreover, the manufacturer promises enhanced quality for FaceTime Audio Calls, even when operating with low bandwidth. As a protective measure, Web filters are now automatically activated on the Apple Accounts of young users, aiming to block access to pornographic websites.
Beyond the primary systems, visionOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, and the HomePod Software 26.1 have also been made available. Users running older versions of macOS are also receiving patches, namely macOS 15.7.2 and macOS 14.8.2, alongside Safari 26.1. Apple confirmed that all updates include vital security enhancements. The company has also signalled that with Version 26.1, it is reorganising its system for issuing urgent, unscheduled security patches, although specific details regarding this change are still pending.
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