iOS 26.1 is available on iPhone 11 or newer models. (Image Source: Apple)
Apple has released the first public beta of iOS 26.2, bringing a mix of interface refinements, new customisation options, and app improvements. Among the highlights are alarms for important reminders, a new sleep scoring system, updates to the News and Podcasts apps, and a transparency slider for the Liquid Glass lock screen.
What’s New in iOS 26.2 Public Beta 1
The iOS 26.2 public beta 1 arrives just days after the release of iOS 26.1. As with previous updates, Apple continues refining the Liquid Glass interface and enhancing core apps. Here’s everything new in this release:
- Lock Screen Translucency Slider: Users can now adjust the translucency of the lock screen clock widget, with support for every font style.
- Revised Sleep Score: Based on user feedback, Apple has adjusted the top-tier sleep rating from “Outstanding” to “Very High.”
- News App Redesign: The News app now offers quick-access categories such as sports, puzzles, politics, business, and food.
- Password App Update: A new setting now helps handle websites that don’t remember login passwords.
- Reminders with Alarms: You can now enable alarms for Reminders by turning on the “Urgent” setting.
- AirPods Live Translation (EU Only): In compliance with the Digital Markets Act, Apple has enabled AirPods Live Translation for users in the European Union.
- Freeform Enhancements: The Freeform app now supports tables, making collaborative projects more versatile.
- Podcasts Improvements: The Podcasts app gains auto-generated chapters, linked references, and recommendations for similar shows.
- Enhanced Notifications: The update adds an option to flash the iPhone display for notifications and introduces an Enhanced Safety Notifications section for alerts about imminent threats.
- If your device is registered for public beta updates, you can download iOS 26.2 now via the Software Update menu.
Background: iOS 26 and Liquid Glass
Also Read | iOS 26.1 update: Apple adds new Liquid Glass tweaks, lock screen gesture toggle
Originally unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025, iOS 26 launched publicly on September 15, 2025, alongside the iPhone 17 series. The update introduced Liquid Glass, a sweeping visual overhaul featuring a translucent, fluid design language across the system interface. It also expanded Apple Intelligence capabilities, including Live Translation and a more advanced Siri.
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