Apple is releasing a major update for its Music app with iOS 26. Many features users have been requesting for years are finally being implemented. Other features are new and rely heavily on artificial intelligence, visuals, and personalization. In this article, you'll learn in detail what's changing, what's new, and everything you can do with Apple Music in iOS 26.
If you're a regular Apple Music user, you should take a closer look at iOS 26. This update delivers the most comprehensive improvements in a long time. The changes affect not only the design and appearance, but also features like automatic transitions, lyrics translations, widgets, and the organization of your library.
AutoMix: Automatic transitions like a DJ
Apple is introducing AutoMix with iOS 26 – a new feature that automatically transitions songs into one another. AI analyzes audio characteristics such as tempo and pitch to create smooth transitions. Time stretching and beat matching ensure seamless transitions. You can disable AutoMix at any time in the settings if you prefer to listen without transitions. Initial feedback from the community has been positive – many are comparing the feature to DJ mixes.
Animated album covers on the lock screen
In iOS 26, your iPhone now displays album art not only in the app, but directly on the lock screen. The display is full-screen and animated if the respective album supports animation. This also works with the Always-On Display and gives your iPhone a visually enhanced appearance whenever music is playing.
Pin music for quick access
You can now pin albums, artists, or playlists to the top of your library. This pinned content will then appear at the top of the Apple Music app, making it easier to find. Ideal if you listen to the same songs frequently or want to save new recommendations. The feature can be activated by simply tapping the menu for any item.
New widgets for the home screen
With iOS 26 there are three new Apple Music widgets:
- Medium-sized “Pins” shows your pinned content.
- Larger size “Pins” offer more space for more content.
- “Live Radio” in large size shows six radio stations curated by Apple and allows direct access.
This allows you to get your favorite content directly on your home screen without having to open the app.
Apple Music Replay is natively integrated into the app
Replay was previously only available via the browser or as a web view within the app. Starting with iOS 26, this is no longer possible. Replay is now fully integrated with Apple Music. You can view your annual overview and monthly listener statistics directly in the app. The display is faster, smoother, and no longer depends on an internet connection for the web view.
Create playlist folders directly on your iPhone
What's been possible on Macs for a long time is now also possible on iOS and iPadOS 26: You can create folders directly on your iPhone or iPad to sort your playlists into. You can also edit or rename the folders. If your media library is large, this can help you get a better overview.
Translate and pronounce song lyrics
Apple Music gets real-time lyrics translation with iOS 26. In the lyrics view, you now see the translation next to the original lyrics, synchronized with the song. There's also a phonetic pronunciation guide. This is especially useful if you're listening to music in a language you don't speak, but still want to sing along or understand the lyrics.
iOS 26 makes Apple Music significantly better
With iOS 26, Apple Music gets many new features that make everyday use of the app more convenient, intelligent, and visual. From automatic transitions with AutoMix to native Replay integration, there are many features that noticeably enhance the service. The new widgets, the ability to pin, and the ability to create folders also demonstrate that Apple is making the Music app significantly more flexible and user-friendly with this update. Anyone who listens to music regularly will definitely benefit from iOS 26. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Charles-McClintock Wilson)
- iOS 26 expands the functionality of the HomePod
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- iOS 26 brings new screenshot features to the iPhone
- iOS 26: Five new lock screen features at a glance
- iOS 26 design change: Reduce transparency easily
- iOS 26: Create your own ringtones – without GarageBand
