Hello! The long-awaited iOS 26.1 update was officially released on November 3, 2025. This update brings more than just simple bug fixes; it includes many noticeable changes. I have thoroughly summarized what has actually changed from a user’s perspective.
Many people, especially those planning international trips, will be interested in the news that real-time Korean translation is now available via AirPods. Since battery issues and screen readability problems have also been significantly improved, let’s take a look at each point.
Why You Should Update to iOS 26.1 Now
Here are the three most noticeable changes in the 26.1 update:
First, Korean has finally been added to the real-time translation feature via AirPods. This will be incredibly useful for international travel or conversations with foreigners.
Second, the Liquid Glass transparency issue, which caused inconvenience for many users after the iOS 26 launch, has been resolved. This is the problem where notifications or text overlapped with the background, making them hard to read.
Third, the severe battery drain issue reported in the initial version has been significantly improved. Optimization has been specifically applied to the graphic rendering part.
Since security updates are also included, we recommend installing the update as soon as possible.
AirPods Real-time Translation, Korean Support Begins!
Which devices can use it?
The highlight of this update is undoubtedly the ‘Live Translation’ feature. A total of four languages have been added, including Korean, Japanese, Italian, and Chinese (Simplified/Traditional).
However, it is not available on all iPhones. It requires iPhone 15 Pro or later or the iPhone 16 series because it utilizes Apple Intelligence technology. This is likely due to the need for the latest AI processing capabilities.
AirPods support the following models:
- AirPods Pro 2nd Generation
- AirPods Pro 3rd Generation
- AirPods 4th Generation (Active Noise Cancellation model)
How does it actually work?
The way Live Translation works is quite fascinating. When a person speaks a foreign language while you are wearing AirPods, the translated Korean is whispered into your ear. Simultaneously, the translated text is displayed on the iPhone screen so the other person can also follow the content.
Because it operates with this dual-output method, the translation is only audible to you in public places, while the other person can confirm the content visually, preserving privacy.
There are also various ways to activate the feature:
- Directly launching the ‘Live’ mode in the Translate app
- Long-pressing the AirPod stem
- Commanding Siri
- Using the Translate shortcut button in Control Center
This will be truly useful when traveling abroad.
Liquid Glass Readability Issue Finally Resolved
The end of the transparency debate
When iOS 26 first launched, the most common complaint was about the transparency of Liquid Glass. Many users said that while the design was beautiful, notifications on the lock screen or in-app text were difficult to read because they overlapped with the background.
In 26.1, a new option called ‘Tinted Look’ has been added. When this option is enabled, opacity is increased, strengthening the contrast between the background and text, significantly improving readability.
It seems like a great solution that maintains the beautiful design while ensuring practicality.
Minor but Useful Improvements
In addition to the major features, this update includes small changes that enhance convenience during use.
Apple Music Control Improvement: You can now skip tracks or go back to the previous song by swiping on the mini-player. AutoMix is also supported when using AirPlay.
Camera Accidental Activation Prevention: A setting has been added to allow users to disable the swipe-to-launch Camera feature from the lock screen, preventing the camera from accidentally turning on in a pocket.
FaceTime Call Quality: FaceTime audio quality has been noticeably improved even in environments with slow internet speeds (like on a subway or while traveling abroad).
Battery Performance: Has it really improved?
Why does the battery drain quickly right after an update?
Battery issues were frequently mentioned after the iOS 26.0 release. First, you should know that it’s normal for the battery to drain faster than usual for 1 to 3 days immediately following an update.
This is because the iPhone is undergoing a process of re-indexing and optimizing new system files. For most users, this returns to normal after a few days.
iOS 26.1 Battery Optimization
However, in iOS 26.0, there were many reports of severe battery drain even after the optimization period passed. It turned out that the problem wasn’t the Liquid Glass transparency itself, but the complex HDR rendering during notifications or touch responses, which continuously strained the GPU and consumed excessive power.
In iOS 26.1, the graphics processing load has been significantly reduced by removing some of these HDR elements. This is fundamental performance optimization, not just a simple bug fix.
Key Changes Summary
| Category | 26.0 Initial Version | 26.1 Update | Improvement Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Efficiency | High consumption due to excessive HDR rendering | HDR elements removed & optimized | Increased usage time, reduced heat |
| Design Readability | Poor visibility due to transparency | Tinted Look option added | Both design and practicality ensured |
| Call Quality | Quality degradation in low bandwidth | Improved audio algorithm | Stable even on unstable networks |
Enhanced Security and Youth Protection
As with all iOS updates, 26.1 includes various security patches. Although specific details have not been fully disclosed, important fixes for known vulnerabilities have been included, making the update essential for security.
Particularly noteworthy is the strengthening of youth account protection. For accounts aged 13–17, the ‘Communication Safety’ feature (detecting and warning about inappropriate images) and web content filters (restricting adult websites) are now enabled by default. This is an important change for those who manage children’s accounts.
Summary: Update Now
iOS 26.1 is an update that places the innovative features of iOS 26 onto a stable foundation. A powerful feature, real-time Korean translation, has been added, and the biggest weaknesses of the initial version—battery performance and screen readability—have been resolved.
If you are currently using iOS 26, we recommend updating immediately. You will benefit from improved battery efficiency and enhanced security.
Finally, one tip: always make a habit of backing up your data with iCloud or a computer before a major update. This is to prepare for any potential situation.
Which feature are you most excited about in this iOS 26.1 update?