Apple introduced the new iOS 26 version at the WWDC 2025 earlier this week which does get the new liquid glass design interface. Apple’s AI focus has been less impressive so far and the company has decided to take it slow and only talk about the features that will be available from day one.

So the iOS 26 feature list does include some of them that were highlighted during the keynote. However, some of these features are compatible with the iPhones that support Apple AI hardware which means you will need iPhone 15 Pro or newer models. 

iOS 26 Features That Needs iPhone 15 Pro Or Newer Models 

AI-Powered Live Translation 

If you saw the cool live translation working across FaceTime, Message and Phone calls during the WWDC 2025 keynote, you must also know the hardware requirements to run them. People using iPhone 13 or the 14 Pro model will not get these iOS 26 features. You will need iPhone 15 Pro or any of the iPhone 16 series models. For everyone else, either upgrade or lose out on the translation option. 

Visual AI With Screenshots 

Apple’s version of Circle to Search works with the help of visual intelligence and for that you will need the action button or the camera control. Once you take a screenshot of a page or a photo, Apple will give you the option to use visual AI to analyse the photo and its content. You can use it if you find an item that you liked and want to buy it online. 

New AI Shortcuts 

Another AI tool that is limited to the latest models is Shortcuts. You can use the tool to create images, summarise text and even use Apple AI to get responses for your queries. This might not be useful for everyone but Apple is bringing it as long as your iPhone can run its AI features. 

AI-Powered Reminders 

The iOS 26 update is not without its share of AI upgrades and one of them is available for reminders. Apple AI will analyse your mails and create a new list of tasks or shopping and set different actions based on the timelines. It might not sound fancy but it could be useful to many using the iPhone 15 Pro or newer models. 

More GenMoji Upgrades 

Apple is allowing you to mix emojis to create a new GenMoji. You can further experiment using prompts and suggestions like adding a new hairstyle or even change the clothing. You also have ChatGPT to support further options like creating a new background based on different effects like print, anime or watercolour.