iPhone users to get seamless background photo uploads with iOS 26.1

In a parallel move to broaden its developer ecosystem, Apple has also unveiled the first preview of its Swift SDK for Android, enabling developers to build Android apps using Swift — a key step in its cross-platform strategy

Apple is set to roll out a much-anticipated iOS 26.1 update aimed at addressing one of the most persistent issues faced by iPhone users — interrupted photo uploads through third-party applications. The update is expected to allow users to upload photos in the background without keeping the app open, streamlining how images are backed up and shared across platforms.

Background uploads for third-party apps

Currently, iPhone users can upload photos seamlessly only through Apple’s native Photos app. Most third-party apps, such as cloud storage or social media platforms, pause uploads when users switch tasks or lock their devices — a restriction that has long frustrated users. With iOS 26.1, Apple is introducing a Background Resource Upload extension within its PhotoKit framework, as reported by 9to5Mac.

This new extension will allow apps to continue uploading media even when not actively running. According to Apple’s documentation, the system will handle uploads automatically in the background, ensuring that the process continues smoothly while users perform other activities or when the device is locked.

The feature is currently in beta testing and will officially launch with the iOS 26.1 release. Developers will need to update their applications to support the new functionality, so universal adoption may take time. Once implemented, the feature will make photo uploads on iPhones more seamless and efficient, reducing users’ dependency on Apple’s native services.

Apple expands Swift to Android

In a parallel move to broaden its developer ecosystem, Apple has also introduced the first preview of the Swift SDK for Android. The new software development kit allows developers to build Android apps using Apple’s Swift programming language — marking a milestone in Apple’s cross-platform strategy.

The Swift SDK uses the swift-java tool to link Swift with Android’s Java APIs, allowing developers to integrate Swift code within existing Android projects. Apple’s Swift Package Index has already begun listing packages compatible with Android, signaling growing interest and adoption.

Together, these developments highlight Apple’s effort to enhance user experience and developer accessibility, bridging gaps between platforms while improving everyday functionality for iPhone users.