The new Apple iOS update features that will completely change your group chat

There are some new features that will be music to the ears of group chat members with the new iOS update.

In case you missed it, iOS 26 is now available on select Apple devices, and it's providing us with some of the biggest changes we've ever seen.

The headline when it comes to new features is 'Liquid Glass', a new look which is set to redefine how devices look and work, though many were not fans following its announcement back in June.

Described by the company as 'translucent' though it 'behaves like glass in the real world', its colour is affected by the content around it, adapting to light and dark environments.

You'll notice it as icons, buttons and controls are set to adopt this appearance, as many users have woken up to the surprising new aesthetic with the new software update.

Liquid Glass might take some getting used to (Apple)

Despite the change being talked up by Apple, people aren't completely on board with Liquid Glass and the other major changes, such as buttons shrinking away when they're not in use - though most will be happy to hear about iPhones now screening potential spam calls and texts.

One other change that is sure to go down a treat is to do with the Messages app.

Before you get over the way that your screen looks, you might want to hop into your group chat to complain to your mates about the sudden changes, and you might notice that there are some new in-app features.

You'll be able to add custom backgrounds to chats, and lo-and-behold, polls have been added to texts.

Long gone are the days of arguing over the restaurant you and your mates eat at, or what day everyone's free next week - just make a poll.

It's been a long time coming if we're being honest, and it saves time when it comes to making decisions.

The new iOS 26 update includes polls and live translation in messages (Jacques Julien/Getty Images)

There's also a handy feature for those of you with friends and family overseas, as live translation, powered by Apple Intelligence, has been added to messages too.

It's another potential game changer, making communication that much easier once again, as the live translation feature is also available on calls and FaceTime.

You'll also be able to call customer service and put your phone away, with iOS 26 allowing your device to alert you when it's your turn in the queue in another much-needed change.

It's only been a few days, but soon enough, the one and a half billion iPhone users across the world will have 'Liquid Glass' on their screens.