Apple iOS 26.1 Beta 2 Update Is Live: Check Latest Features, Security Fixes, More

Also Read: 7 New iPhone Features You May Have Missed Trying

Apple has released the iOS 26.1 Beta 2 update for developers and beta testers who are still running their iPhones in the beta version. This comes after the two weeks of the first beta update of the iOS 26.1 series. Now, the latest beta version of the iOS 26.1 series brings a bunch of new features for your iPhones. Also Read: Alert! This Hidden Flaw In Your iPhone And iPad Could Lead To A Major Security Breach, CERT-In Issues Warning

Wondering what all you will get to test with the iOS 26.1 Beta 2 version? Have a look.

iOS 26.1 Beta 2: New Features For Your iPhone

Alarms Get a Smarter Fix: Tired of accidentally turning off your morning alarm? Apple seems to have heard you. In iOS 26.1 Beta 2, the alarm now needs a slide gesture to stop instead of just a tap. However, you can still tap to snooze it, but sliding to stop means fewer accidental silences when you’re half-asleep. The same change also applies to timers, making it a thoughtful little update.

New Background Security Toggle: Under Privacy & Security, there’s now a new toggle called Background Security Improvements. It lets you automatically download and install important security patches in the background. 

Fitness App Adds Custom Workouts: The Fitness app now lets you create your own workouts. You can pick the workout type, set your effort level, estimated calories, and even the duration and start time. It’s a neat feature for those who like tailoring their fitness routines instead of sticking to pre-set ones.

Small Design and Display Tweaks: Apple has also made a few subtle interface changes. The text and icon alignment in the Settings app is now left-aligned instead of centre. In Home Screen folders, names also shift to the left, matching the updated design language. You’ll notice lighter refractions and softer colour transitions in the new Liquid Glass UI, too. When setting wallpapers, the “Pinch to Crop” hint now appears briefly and disappears.

Photos and Accessibility Updates: In the Photos app, options like Play as Slideshow, Favourite, and Hide have been moved to the top for easier access. There’s also a new “Display Borders” toggle under Accessibility, and then go to the Display & Text Size, which replaces the older Button Shapes feature and adds clearer visual outlines for interface elements.

How To Get The Update

Suppose you’re enrolled in Apple’s beta software program. In that case, you can install iOS 26.1 Beta 2 by going to Settings, visiting the General option and then going to the Software Update and tapping Install Now. As always, remember this is still beta software. However, expect minor bugs here and there.