iOS-26-Beta-2

 

Apple iOS 26 Beta 2 Introduces Refinements to Liquid Glass and New Feautres

 

Apple has released iOS 26 Beta 2, generating excitement among developers and Apple enthusiasts. This update features a stunning new Liquid Glass design, enhanced integration with Apple Intelligence, and numerous behind-the-scenes improvements. It builds upon the major vision Apple showcased at WWDC 2025.

Is it worth downloading? Which iPhones are compatible with this beta? What new features have emerged since the initial release? This article provides all the necessary information, including the latest highlights and a step-by-step guide for downloading the update.

 

What's new in iOS 26 Beta 2?

 

1. Liquid Glass Design Updates

 

The Liquid Glass interface, the biggest redesign in iOS 26, replaces the flat design we've grown accustomed to since the release of iOS 7.

Here are the changes to Beta 2:

  • Control Center: The background blur has been slightly reduced, which improves readability.
  • Reduce Transparency Option: The accessibility settings now offer a stronger transparency reduction option. Lock screen widgets now offer users the option to move them to the bottom of the screen, allowing for greater customization.

 

2. Safari and App Store Updates

 

  • Safari's new Tab button: The tab button has returned to the bottom-left corner (iOS 18-style) after public protest.
  • App Store Accessibility section: App developers are now required to indicate the accessibility features supported by their app on the app page.

 

3. Wallet and Live caption Improvements

 

  • Order Tracking: Siri can now read order status emails even when you haven't used Apple Pay.
  • Save Call Transcripts: Previously known as Transcribe Calls, this feature is now available. This feature lets everyone know that you recorded them.

 

4. New Ringtone and Apple Music Widget

 

  •  Alt 1 Ringtone: A unique rendition of the Reflection default ringtone.
  •  Live Radio Widget: a new widget for live streaming Apple Music on live radio.

 

5. Recovery Assistant to Troubleshoot

 

A new Recovery Assistant has been added to help diagnose boot problems, so you will not have to rely on a Mac or PC to recover.

 

How to Download iOS 26 Beta 2

 

Prerequisites

 

  • Supported devices: iPhone 11 and a later model only (XX or XR are not supported).
  • Back up Important Data: Ensure that it is backed up using iCloud, Finder, or iTunes to prevent data loss.

 

Download Steps

 

1. Enroll in and join Apple's Developer Program (the free tier works).

 

2. Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates. 3. Select iOS 26 Developer Beta and then download it.

 

3. Manual installation via the IPSW file requires that you download the restore file from Apple's developer website and use Finder on a Mac or Apple Devices on Windows. 

 

Note: The Public Beta is scheduled to arrive in mid-July 2025 for non-developers.

 

How to install iOS 26 Beta 2, or not to install

 

The Pros

 

  • It gets an exclusive sneak peek at the Liquid Glass and Apple Intelligence features.
  • It has better stability than Beta 1 with significant bug fixes.

 

The Cons 

 

  • App crashes and battery drain remain "normal" (steer clear of master devices).
  • Some features, including Siri's enhanced AI, are delayed to 2026. 

 

 Verdict: Is iOS 26 Beta 2 Worth Trying? 

 

iOS 26 Beta 2 continues to advance Apple's major redesign, introducing new features such as Wallet order tracking and enhanced accessibility. However, as it is still in beta, it is primarily intended for developers or individuals using a secondary device. For those willing to try it, the download process is straightforward. Nevertheless, it may be wise to wait for the public beta release or the final update in September 2025.

What’s next? We can expect weekly releases of additional beta updates, which will likely introduce significant changes before the official version is launched. Stakeholders should stay alert for more detailed analyses of iPadOS 26 and the integration of Apple Intelligence.