How do I find hidden features in iOS 26.5?

To find hidden iOS 26.5 features, explore the Settings app sections like Accessibility, Phone, Messages, and Files to uncover tools like Name Recognition, enhanced spam filtering, and custom folder visuals.

Can AirPods be used as a camera remote on iOS 26.5?

Yes, certain AirPods models can be set up as a camera remote by pairing them with your iPhone and enabling the Camera Remote action in settings.

Does iOS 26.5 improve spam filtering?

iOS 26.5 expands spam filtering for messages and calls, letting you screen unknown senders and place suspicious texts or calls in separate filtered lists.

iOS 26.5 Hidden Features Every iPhone User Should Know

Apple’s iOS 26 update introduced many headline features like the Liquid Glass design and smarter call screening, but the iOS 26.5 point update quietly adds several useful hidden tools and improvements that can make everyday tasks smoother and help you get more out of your iPhone.

Top Hidden iOS 26.5 Features Worth Exploring

Here are some of the lesser-known but genuinely helpful hidden features that have begun appearing with iOS 26.5 (and the ongoing iOS 26 rollout):

1. Name Recognition Alerts You When Someone Says Your Name

iOS 26 adds a Name Recognition feature that listens for your name in the environment and alerts you when it hears it — useful in crowded places or when you want to stay aware of spoken cues. You can customize the names it listens for and even record your own pronunciation.

How to enable:
Settings > Accessibility > Sound & Name Recognition > Name Recognition

2. Custom Folders in Files App

The Files app now lets you customize folders with colours, icons, or emojis, making it easier to organize and visually distinguish work files, personal documents, and more.

How to use:
Press and hold a folder > Customise Folder and Tags > Choose colour/icon

3. Better Spam Blocking

Messages and Phone apps get smarter spam and unknown-caller filtering. You can send suspicious texts and unknown calls into separate lists so they don’t clutter your main inbox or ring your phone.

Enable it via:
Settings > Apps > Messages / Phone > Filter Spam / Screen Unknown Callers

4. Call Back Reminder

Missed a call? iOS 26 lets you set a reminder right from the call log so you don’t forget to return it later. A reminder badge appears above the Recents list and syncs with the Reminders app.

5. Use AirPods as a Camera Remote

Pair certain AirPods models and assign a press action in settings to use your AirPods as a remote shutter button for the Camera app — perfect for group photos or selfies.

Additional Useful iOS 26 Features Worth Trying

These hidden enhancements aren’t always obvious but greatly improve usability:

Adaptive Power Mode: Smarter battery optimization that adjusts power use based on activity and task type.

Smart Screenshots With Visual Intelligence: After taking a screenshot, iPhone offers options like asking ChatGPT about what’s on the screen or performing a visual search.

Custom Alarm Snooze: Set your own snooze time between 1–15 minutes instead of the fixed nine-minute default.

New Reminders Shortcut: Add a quick Reminders button to Control Center or Lock Screen.

Polls in Messages: Create quick polls inside group chats from the Messages app.

Why These Hidden Features Matter

While Apple often promotes major features during updates, iOS 26.5’s smaller, hidden enhancements — like spam filtering, name recognition, and photo tools — can noticeably improve day-to-day iPhone use. Many users may not discover these features unless they actively explore the Settings app.

These subtle upgrades show Apple’s focus on personalization, convenience, and smarter system behaviour — especially in areas like call management, photo controls, accessibility, and quick actions.