I’ve been using iOS 26 since its official release, and over time I’ve uncovered several hidden iOS 26 features that Apple barely mentioned. Some of these tools simplify everyday tasks, while others unlock powerful capabilities that quietly improve the overall iPhone experience. A few feel important enough that Apple should have showcased them during the launch, while others are subtle enhancements that quickly become essential once you start using them.
What’s surprising is that none of these iOS 26 hidden features are difficult to activate. Apple simply didn’t make it obvious where to find them or how they work. After weeks of hands-on use, I’ve identified 5 lesser-known iOS 26 hidden features that genuinely make a difference in daily use—and you might be missing them too.
1. Check how long your iPhone needs to charge
iOS 26 introduces a smarter charging feature that shows exactly how much time remains until your iPhone reaches a full charge, eliminating the guesswork around whether you have enough time to power up before heading out.
To access this feature, go to Settings → Battery. You’ll see real-time charging estimates indicating when your iPhone will reach 80% and 100% battery (or your custom charge limit). These estimates update dynamically as charging speed changes, giving you a more accurate picture at any moment.
This iOS 26 battery time remaining feature is especially useful when you’re in a hurry. Instead of unplugging too early or waiting longer than necessary, you can plan your charging around precise, real-world timing—making short charging sessions far more efficient.
2. Screenshot magnifier is back!
Apple has reintroduced the magnifier (loupe) tool for screenshots in iOS 26, making it much easier to highlight important details you want others to notice.
To use the iOS 26 screenshot magnifier, take a screenshot as usual. When the preview appears, tap Markup, then select the plus (+) icon in the bottom-right corner. From the menu, choose Add Loupe.
Once enabled, a circular magnifier appears on your screenshot. You can drag it over any area you want to emphasize, instantly enlarging that section while keeping the rest of the image at its original size. The loupe can be resized by dragging the blue handles around its edge for precise control.
This iOS 26 loupe feature is especially useful for highlighting small text, icons, or fine details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Instead of cluttering the image with arrows or shapes, the magnifier draws attention naturally while preserving full context—making your screenshots clearer and more professional.
3. Isolate your voice in memos
iOS 26 introduces Voice Isolation for Voice Memos, a powerful feature that significantly reduces background noise and makes your recordings sound far more professional—even in loud environments.
To enable Voice Isolation in iOS 26, open the Voice Memos app and start recording. While recording, swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center, then tap Voice Memos Controls at the top of the screen. From there, select Voice Isolation from the available options.
This iOS 26 voice isolation feature delivers impressively clean audio, whether you’re recording in a busy coffee shop, on a noisy street, or in a crowded room. It’s especially useful for interviews, lectures, voice notes, and spoken content, ensuring clear speech without distracting background noise.
4. Create custom playback settings for podcasts
iOS 26 introduces per-podcast playback controls, allowing you to customize playback speed and audio settings for each individual show—so you no longer have to readjust settings every time you switch podcasts.
To access these iOS 26 podcast custom controls, open the Podcasts app and tap the Library tab at the bottom of the screen. Select Shows, then touch and hold the podcast you want to customize. From the menu that appears, tap Settings.
Enable Use Custom Adjustments for This Show, and you can set a unique playback speed, skip intervals, and audio enhancements that apply only to that podcast. These preferences are saved automatically and will be used for every episode from that show, including newly released episodes.
With this iOS 26 podcast feature, your iPhone remembers individual listening preferences, making podcast playback smoother and more personalized—without the need for constant manual changes
5. Share your IMEI as a scannable barcode
iOS 26 introduces a barcode option for IMEI and device identifiers, saving you from the hassle of reading long strings of numbers at a carrier store. Instead of manually entering your device information, store staff can now scan it directly from your iPhone.
To access this iOS 26 IMEI barcode feature, open Settings → General → About and scroll down to your IMEI number. Press and hold on the IMEI field, then select Barcode from the menu that appears.
Your iPhone will display a scannable barcode containing your IMEI. If you choose Share Device Identifiers, you can also share both your IMEI and eSIM ID (EID) simultaneously by allowing the carrier representative to scan the barcodes.
This iOS 26 device identifier barcode feature is especially useful when activating a new line, troubleshooting network issues, or getting in-store carrier support. It removes the need to dictate or copy long numbers, reducing errors and speeding up the entire process.
