Apple’s flashy new OS design is getting all the attention, but the 3D image magic of Spatial Scenes is the real reason to upgrade.
With iOS 26, Apple introduces a new design language: Liquid Glass. This transformative UI delivers a slick, system-wide visual overhaul that gives iPhone elements a dynamic, translucent quality. Liquid Glass is a fresh new look, but it’s been hogging the spotlight from some of iOS 26’s more compelling features. One is a legitimate game-changer if you love personalization and editing photos: Spatial Scenes. This new generative AI tool transforms your everyday photos into eye-catching 3D wallpapers you can use on your Home and Lock Screen. The new images react to your phone’s movements. After spending more hours than I care to admit tinkering with it, I can confidently say Spatial Scenes elevates iOS 26 to a must-have update.
Don’t miss out on our latest stories. Add PCMag as a preferred source on Google.Spatial Scenes Creates Amazing Wallpaper and Photo Imagery
I like the glassy look, graphical flourish, and customization options Liquid Glass brings, but not everyone is happy with it. Some complaints include poor text readability, confusion from blurred backgrounds, and even dizziness. Spatial Scenes, on the other hand, introduces plenty of iPhone customization, looks fantastic, and has few issues.
First, I tried Spatial Scenes to create custom wallpaper; you enable it by heading to the wallpaper customization menu and tapping the hexagonal badge. Spatial Scenes uses AI to analyze and create a depth map for virtually any photo with a clear subject.
