Can you revert back from iOS 26? How to turn off most controversial features in update

Now you've had a few days to get used to the new iOS 26 update, chances are, you've made your decision on whether you love it or loathe it.

It's a big jump from iOS 18, and Apple has introduced a lot of exciting new features - from call screening (every Gen Zers dream) and polls in iMessage, to live translation and a liquid glass effect in notifications - but that also means it's a big change, and if it's proving too much all at once, you've probably wondering how to turn off the bits you don't need.

Apple

Can I revert my iPhone back to iOS 18?

Short answer: No. Apple has stopped signing iOS 18.6.2, which means now once you've upgraded, there's no going back.

If you're still using iOS 18, you can continue to keep it as normal, and Apple will still be rolling out security upgrades to this version for another year or so. It also gives you time to wait out the inevitable initial bugs that a new iOS update brings.

How to turn off call screening in iOS 26

Apple

We're not exactly sure why you'd want to turn off call screening, given that it means you can now selectively answer the phone and find out if it's a spam call (or simply someone you just don't want to talk to), before you pick up.

But, should you love the thrill of never knowing who you're speaking to until it's too late - you can turn this feature off.

Simply head into your settings, hit apps, and then phone. Under the 'Screen Unknown Callers' tab, toggle to 'Never'.

How to turn off conversation backgrounds in iOS 26

iMessage has been given a WhatsApp-style makeover in that you can now change the background for your chats - but if one person does it - it changes it for everyone.

If you're more of a minimalist, you probably don't want your worst angle plastered all over the background of your text messages, so let's turn it off.

Head back into your settings, and under apps, you'll find the 'messages' section. Scroll to find 'Conversation Backgrounds', and disable the function.

How to turn off liquid glass in iOS 26

Apple

Liquid glass has very quickly become one of the most marmite features of the new iOS update, giving your entire home screen a more translucent appearance.

While some people love it its sleekness, others are finding it way too distracting to look at; and luckily, you can change it.

Under your settings, head to 'Accessibility' and go to' Display and Text'. From there, you'll be able to reduce the transparency.

How to turn off the spatial effect in iOS 26

Apple's new 3D spatial iPhone effect is a major advancement in technology, triggering the graphics on your phone screen to look as though they're 'moving' as you move your screen.

However, in a world where constantly finding ways to switch off, being immersed in your phone screen itself may not be for you.

If you don't want the new spatial effect on your screen, simply press your lock screen and hit 'Customise'. You'll then want to hit the hexagon icon that appears to turn it off.

Why not read...

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