Even though it’s too early to pass a full-on verdict on iOS 26, I’ve found it a noteworthy upgrade. The eye-catching design aside, the latest iteration of iOS comes loaded with a plethora of exciting features, which have made beta testing a pleasant affair.
So, when Apple rolled out the iOS 26 beta 2, I couldn’t help but dig into the pre-released software. Having taken the beta for a spin, I’d like to share the 9 most notable features and changes in iOS 26 Beta 2. Read on to unravel the new add-ons:
1. Safari Interface Fixes
Apple has addressed one of the key user complaints in Safari. In iOS 26 beta 1, the “+” (new tab) button was moved to the top-left corner, which disrupted the natural workflow for many.
In beta 2, it has returned to the bottom-left, matching the layout used in iOS 18. Additionally, users who opt for the Compact tab bar view will now see both back and forward buttons, making navigation more seamless.
2. New Ringtone – Alt 1
A brand-new ringtone titled “Alt 1” has been added as a variation of the classic Reflection tone. While the original Reflection remains the default, users can switch to Alt 1 by going to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone > Reflection.
3. Improved Control Center Design
One of the most appreciated changes is the tweak to the Liquid Glass Control Center. Buttons now feature a stronger blur background, which improves icon visibility on busy or multicolored wallpapers. This makes interacting with Control Center much more intuitive.
4. Reduce Transparency Enhancement
Under Accessibility settings (Settings app > Accessibility > Display & Text), the Reduce Transparency toggle has been made more effective. It now significantly reduces the Liquid Glass effect, offering a cleaner and more readable interface for those who prefer higher contrast visuals.
5. Live Radio Widget for Apple Music
A Live Radio widget has been introduced, allowing Apple Music users to access radio streams directly from the Home Screen or Today View—offering quick, convenient listening.
6. Updated Low Power Mode Description
Apple has clarified what Low Power Mode actually affects. The updated description now includes reduced processing speed, display refresh rate, brightness, and limitations on 5G, iCloud sync, and background tasks.
7. App Store Accessibility Section
A new Accessibility section has been added to App Store product pages. This allows developers to highlight which accessibility features their apps support, giving users a better understanding of usability before downloading.
8. Live Captions Transparency Update
The Transcribe Calls option has been renamed to Save Call Transcripts (Settings > Accessibility > Live Captions), and iOS will now play a sound to notify participants before transcription begins, reinforcing Apple’s commitment to privacy and transparency.
9. Expanded Order Tracking in Wallet
The Wallet app now supports full order tracking—even for purchases not made via Apple Pay. Siri, with the help of Apple Intelligence, can scan emails in the Mail app to detect order confirmations and present them in the Wallet’s Orders section. This feature is opt-in and helps users manage deliveries more efficiently.
Wrapping up…
And that’s about it! While still in its early stages, iOS 26 beta 2 is already proving to be a thoughtful refinement of Apple’s next mobile OS. With visual improvements, functional upgrades, and privacy-focused tweaks, this update offers a promising glimpse into what’s to come when iOS 26 officially launches later this year.
