iOS 26 beta 2 update released: Details on fresh features, download methods included
In a recent development, Apple has unveiled the second developer beta of its upcoming operating system, iOS 26. This latest update brings a host of visual and interface enhancements, app and feature updates, and system and utilities improvements.
## Visual and Interface Enhancements
One of the most noticeable changes in iOS 26 beta 2 is the redesigned Control Center. The background blur has been enhanced for improved legibility, using a darker color and more pronounced blur, making it easier to read overlaid content. The system-wide Liquid Glass theme now features more dynamic elements, including added borders to interface components in High Contrast Mode, and dynamic user interface elements that mimic real-world glass textures.
The stock iPhone wallpaper collection is back, with each iPhone model getting unique options. The new iOS 26 wallpaper features a parallax effect that was missing in beta 1. Previously deleted wallpapers from this collection can now be restored. When fewer than four apps are in the Dock, icons are now left-aligned instead of center-aligned.
## App and Feature Updates
Safari in iOS 26 beta 2 has seen some significant changes. The new tab button has been moved back to the bottom of the browser. The More Menu (…) has been reorganized with different icons and a new sort order, but maintains the same core functionality.
ChatGPT now categorizes requests into ‘Image Limit’ and ‘Other Requests’, making it easier to see what types of actions are available or limited. New widgets have been added for live radio stations and for launching Apple Music search directly from the Lock Screen, useful for CarPlay integration.
Siri can now use order information from Mail to update order statuses in Wallet. Users can manage these updates within Wallet & Apple Pay settings. Notifications from unknown senders now display a blue notification badge instead of red to further distinguish between different types of alerts.
## System and Utilities
A new variant of the “Reflection” ringtone is now available and visible in Settings under “Reflections”. iOS 26 beta 2 introduces a new way to recover a device if it doesn’t start up normally, attempting to diagnose and resolve detected problems automatically.
## Additional Notes
While not exclusive to beta 2, the new “Games” app is part of the broader iOS 26 experience, offering a central hub for all games. Further refinements and new features for staying connected, including better handling of unwanted calls, can be found in Messages and Phone App Improvements.
The redesigned Passkey sign-in interface and the lock screen widgets at the bottom of the screen have been replaced in iOS 26 beta 2. Developers can now emphasise inclusive features on app product pages using the App Store's dedicated "Accessibility" section.
It's worth noting that Ashish Singh, the Chief Copy Editor at the platform, has been working with tech jargon since 2020. If updating to the iOS 26 developer beta, it's recommended to back up all data. A tone warning participants of transcription is included in "Save Call Transcripts".
The official release of iOS 26 is planned for mid-September, with a public beta anticipated in July. iOS 26 beta 2 is available for registered developers, but the public beta release date for iOS 26 is still unknown.
Gadget enthusiasts and technology aficionados might appreciate the new smartphone features in iOS 26, as the stock iPhone wallpapers return with a parallax effect, and the Control Center now has a redesigned background with improved legibility. Additionally, the Safari browser in iOS 26 has undergone significant changes, including moving the new tab button to the bottom of the browser.
