On iOS 26 beta 6, apps launch faster and with a wrap effect, which is similar to the way windows minimize to the dock on macOS. Part of the change is that apps leap out of their icons much faster than before, which adds to the feeling of speed. Unlike iOS 18, where the animation is more gradual, on iOS 26, apps expand to 90% of the screen in the time it takes the older software to fill about half the display.
| iOS 26 DB5 (Old) | iOS 26 DB6 (New) |
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Providing a feeling of faster software is a smart move for Apple. The Liquid Glass redesign is already a controversial topic, so it’s likely that many negative opinions will emerge once it reaches more iPhone users. If Apple makes people feel like their phones got faster, they’ll be happier, even if they’re not delighted by the new design.
Just like many other things Apple does, that’s not exactly unique. Most Android launchers out there already have faster animations, which look especially good on high refresh rate displays.
As an owner of an older iPhone, I am quite excited about Apple’s approach with iOS 26. That won’t be the first time my device feels faster after a major OS update, and I’ve always been happy about it. Even if it’s just a trick, I’ll happily enjoy the perception and may even postpone buying a new phone a little longer.
