iOS 26 Beta 5 & Apple’s “Awe Dropping” Event Insights

Introduction

Apple’s fall lineup is gearing up to be one of its most transformative yet. With the iOS 26 Beta 5 already live and the “Awe Dropping” launch event slated for September 9, anticipation is building around the iPhone 17 family, iOS 26’s Liquid Glass redesign, and a host of next-gen devices and features.

A Brief History & Context

Apple’s 2025 software overhaul began at WWDC in June with the unveiling of iOS 26, along with macOS Tahoe, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 — all adopting the new Liquid Glass design language  This update marked Apple’s shift to year-based versioning to sync OS releases across devices 

What’s New in iOS 26 Beta 5 and Features to Expect

iOS 26 Beta 5 is now publicly available for testing It brings enhancements like:

• Visual Intelligence: AI-powered screenshot actions 

• Live Translation across Messages, FaceTime, and Phone 

• Genmoji and Image Playground for creative AI visuals 

• Improved Call Screening, Hold Assist, and Order Tracking in Wallet 

• Revamped Messages, Reminders, Safari navigation, CarPlay, and more 

The entire OS sports the Liquid Glass look—translucent, dynamic, and seamless across Apple's ecosystem 

iOS 26 is expected to release publicly in mid-September, shortly after the iPhone 17 announcement on September 9 

Apple’s “Awe Dropping” Event: What’s Coming

Scheduled for September 9, 2025, this Apple event will be staged at the Steve Jobs Theater, Cupertino, under the title “Awe Dropping” 

Expected Launches:

• iPhone 17 lineup: Standard, Pro, Pro Max, and the ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air 

• Aesthetic hints like new Liquid Glass colors and a possible vapor chamber cooling system 

• Apple Watch Series 11 and AirPods Pro 3 potential arrivals 

Pricing in India (approximate):

• iPhone 17 Air: ₹89,000

• iPhone 17: ₹79,900

• iPhone 17 Pro: ₹1,45,000

• iPhone 17 Pro Max: ₹1,64,900 

Timeline:

• Event: Sep 9

• Pre-orders: Starting Sep 12

• Availability: Around Sep 19 

Key Advantages

• Unified design overhaul with Liquid Glass: modern, fluid UI across all Apple platforms

• AI-enhanced utilities like translation, call screening, and intelligent visuals upgrade daily workflows 

• Strong design innovation across iPhone models—thin Air variant, new colors, Pro-level cooling systems 

• Comprehensive product refresh, including phones, wearables, and audio accessories 

Potential Drawbacks & Considerations

• Beta quirks: iOS 26 Beta 5 may have bugs, so cautious use is advised 

• Device compatibility: iPhone support drops older A12-based models like iPhone XR and XS 

• Incremental innovation risks: Some may view updates as iterative, not groundbreaking

• Price sensitivity: Premium pricing of the iPhone 17 Pro models may curb affordability 

Final Thoughts & Conclusion

Apple’s 2025 fall lineup signals a bold forward stride. Between the sleek Liquid Glass UI, AI tools baked into iOS 26, and a refreshed hardware roster—including a slim new Air model and enhanced camera capabilities—Apple is resetting user expectations across its ecosystem.

However, real-world adoption will depend on execution smoothness, software polish, and value perception, especially amidst price awareness.

If Apple nails rollout and functionality, this event could define a new era in cohesive, intelligent, and visually immersive user experience.