Ready to explore Apple’s latest iPhone features without the wait? Apple has just released the first iOS 26.2 public beta, packed with a myriad of exciting new functionalities. Here’s a comprehensive overview of everything that’s new in this update.
One of the most significant changes in iOS 26.2 is in the Sleep Score feature. Apple has revamped how this feature works for enhanced sleep tracking. The highest category, previously known as Excellent, has been replaced with Very High. Additionally, the thresholds for each category have been recalibrated. This update comes in response to user feedback that indicated the Sleep Score range was too broad and that the Excellent category was overly optimistic. For further details about this important change, click here.
Apple is leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance the experience of the Apple Podcasts app. With iOS 26.2, the app will be equipped to automatically generate chapters, link referenced podcasts, and gather show links. This integration of AI aims to streamline the podcast listening experience and provide users with easier access to content. Read more about these exciting updates here.
The redesign of iOS 26 itself brought significant visual updates, and with iOS 26.2, Apple is refining the Apple News app even further. The new version will feature quick links to popular sections within the app, making it more user-friendly and efficient. This design improvement aims to enhance how users interact with news content. Explore the design changes in detail here.
Big news for AirPods users: Apple has announced that AirPods Live Translation will be available in European Union countries starting in December. This feature is expected to launch alongside the official release of iOS 26.2, marking a significant step in making real-time translation more accessible. For more information on the rollout plans, click here.
Another striking addition in iOS 26.2 is the dramatic Liquid Glass Lock Screen slider. This new feature allows users to adjust the level of translucency on the Lock Screen clock, now compatible with each font option. This enhancement offers users a unique way to customize their device's appearance. Learn more about this Lock Screen customization option here.
iOS 26.2 brings a valuable update to the Reminders app, introducing the ability to trigger an alarm when an urgent reminder is due. This feature provides a more robust level of notification compared to standard repeating alerts or the Time Sensitive alerts. Furthermore, alarms and timers can now bypass Focus modes, ensuring that important reminders are not missed. Read more about this new functionality here.
We anticipate that iOS 26.2 will officially launch in December. In the meantime, if you’re eager to explore the latest features, you can try the developer beta for the most immediate access or opt for the public beta for a more stable experience.