Discover the Latest & Greatest Features Coming to iOS 26.1!

In the latest iOS 26.1 beta 3 release, Apple has rolled out some exciting new features: third-party AI integration, notification filtering, local audio capture, and the revamped identity of Apple TV.

Note: This article will be updated as more information becomes available.

Expanding Beyond ChatGPT to Other AI Models

The most significant update in this beta is the potential inclusion of third-party artificial intelligence models within the system. Previously, Apple Intelligence primarily utilized ChatGPT for complex queries. However, new code snippets in iOS 26.1 beta 3 suggest a shift: the phrase “Report a problem related to ChatGPT” has been replaced with “Report a problem related to a third party” (in English, “Third Party”).

This change implies that Apple is preparing for broader compatibility, possibly through the Model Context Protocol, a standard already employed by OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic. Concurrently, Xcode now supports Anthropic accounts, reinforcing the notion of a multi-player collaboration instead of a closed ecosystem.

In practice, this could mean that native apps like Notes, Siri, or Image Playground may soon utilize various AI models based on specific needs—from Gemini to Claude and possibly others.

Apple TV’s New Identity

Beta 3 also marks the rebranding of Apple TV+ to simply Apple TV (as seen in the announcement for F1: The Movie), complete with a new colorful icon and updated terms of use.

Local Capture Feature

The Local Capture feature, which allows users to record their own audio track during a call, now includes a new setting in the Settings app. Users can now activate capture via Settings > General > Local Capture, select Audio Only mode, and even set the default save folder (initially set to Downloads). This feature is compatible with the iPhone’s microphone, AirPods, or an external USB microphone.

Miscellaneous: iPad, Notifications, Enhanced Security

For accessibility, Apple has added an option Prefer Single-Touch Actions (Accessibility > Touch), simplifying some interactions to a single tap.

Another new feature spotted by Macworld text: transferring notifications to third-party accessories—a function designed for smartwatches other than the Apple Watch. It appears that notifications can only be sent to one accessory at a time. In other words, activating this option would likely disable notifications on the Apple Watch.

Additionally, the system now includes references to new anti-spying alerts directly in iOS, bypassing email or iMessage. Minor tweaks also affect the animation of the Control Center and the text Slide to Stop in the Clock app.