With the launch of iOS 26 at WWDC 2025, Apple has revealed a slew of exciting updates to the iPhone ecosystem. While much of the attention was on the new Liquid Glass design and Apple Intelligence, many users quickly noticed a pattern — several of these new features feel very familiar.
Also Check: iOS 26 Camera Redesign: How Apple Just Changed the Way You Shoot Photos & Videos
In fact, Apple’s latest software appears to borrow some of Android’s most useful tools, polishing them with Apple’s signature style. Whether it’s Google Pixel’s call screening or Google Lens-style visual search, iOS 26 is blending innovation with inspiration.
Also Check: WWDC 2025 Keynote 10 Major Announcements You Shouldn’t Miss
Let’s dive into the top Android-inspired features now available on iPhones with iOS 26.
1. Visual Intelligence with On-Screen Search
One of the most useful additions to iOS 26 is Visual Intelligence — allowing users to take a screenshot and search anything on the screen directly, across any app. It mirrors the functionality of Google Lens, which has been a staple for Android users.
Apple’s twist? ChatGPT integration. This addition gives iPhone users the ability to ask more complex questions based on what they see, blending AI-powered assistance with visual search.
2. Call Screening Comes to iPhone
Apple finally introduces Call Screening, a beloved Pixel feature. Now, when you receive a call from an unknown number, iOS 26 can answer it for you, gather information from the caller, and display it on your lock screen. You can then choose whether to pick up, ignore, or block the call — just like Android’s screening via Google Assistant.
3. Hold Assist for Smarter Calling
Sick of listening to elevator music while on hold? Apple’s new Hold Assist in iOS 26 automatically listens for when a real person picks up and notifies you. Android users have enjoyed Google’s “Hold for Me” for years — now it’s Apple users’ turn to relax while waiting.
4. Live Translation Across iPhone Apps
iOS 26 brings real-time translation to Messages, FaceTime, and Phone, making it easier to communicate in different languages. Google Translate and Android phones already offer similar tools — but Apple’s native integration across key communication apps enhances convenience and privacy.
5. Visited Places in Apple Maps
Apple Maps is getting a “Visited Places” feature, inspired by Google Maps’ Timeline. It gives iPhone users a personalized travel history, making it easy to revisit favorite locations or track daily commutes.
Apple has also borrowed a few tricks from WhatsApp. iOS 26’s Messages app now includes:
- Polls in group chats
- Customizable backgrounds
- Enhanced reactions and message effects
While not Android-specific, these features have long been available in Meta-owned messaging platforms.
While some may call it imitation, others might argue Apple is simply bringing the best user experiences under one roof. Either way, iOS 26 represents a major leap in functionality and convenience, with features that blend Android innovation and Apple’s signature polish.
Whether you're a longtime iPhone user or switching from Android, this update is packed with practical tools designed to simplify your day-to-day digital life.
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