Apple has officially rolled out the first public beta of its upcoming iOS 26.2, delivering a significant package of refinements that focus on deeper interface customisation and smarter app functionalities. This release arrives just days after the stable iOS 26.1 update became available, showcasing Apple's continued commitment to refining the user experience for compatible iPhone models, specifically the iPhone 11 and newer.
What's New in the iOS 26.2 Beta?
The latest beta introduces a mix of visual tweaks and practical enhancements. A standout feature is the new Lock Screen Translucency Slider, which gives users precise control over the opacity of the clock widget on their Liquid Glass lock screen. This new level of customisation works seamlessly with every available font style, allowing for a more personalised look.
Another notable improvement is in the Health app, where Apple has revised the sleep scoring system. Responding to user feedback, the company has changed the top-tier sleep rating from "Outstanding" to the more descriptive "Very High". This adjustment aims to provide a clearer understanding of sleep quality metrics.
App Enhancements and New Functionalities
Several core apps have received meaningful updates in this beta. The News app has been redesigned with quick-access categories, making it easier to jump directly into sections like sports, puzzles, politics, business, and food. For those who rely on reminders, a new "Urgent" setting can now be enabled, which attaches an alarm to ensure critical tasks are not missed.
In a move to comply with the European Union's Digital Markets Act, Apple has activated AirPods Live Translation exclusively for EU users. The Podcasts app also gets a boost with auto-generated chapters, linked references, and recommendations for similar shows. Furthermore, the collaborative Freeform app now supports tables, enhancing its utility for group projects.
Focus on Safety and Privacy
This update also strengthens safety and notification features. A new option allows the iPhone display to flash for incoming notifications, providing a visual alert. An Enhanced Safety Notifications section has been introduced to deliver alerts about imminent threats, adding an extra layer of security for users.
If your device is registered for Apple's public beta program, you can download iOS 26.2 beta 1 immediately via the Software Update menu in Settings. This release builds upon the Liquid Glass design language first introduced with iOS 26, which launched publicly on September 15, 2025, alongside the iPhone 17 series.
