Apple has released the iOS 26.2 Public Beta 1 for all eligible iPhone users, introducing several refinements and new features focused on personalization, safety, and productivity.
One of the standout additions is a Lock Screen customization option that lets users adjust the translucency of the clock widget through a slider. This feature works with all font styles, offering more control over the visual look of the lock screen.
In the Reminders app, Apple has added an ‘Urgent’ toggle, allowing users to attach alarms to important tasks for timely alerts. The Sleep Score system has also been updated—its top tier is now labeled “Very high” instead of “Excellent,” reflecting feedback from users who wanted more clarity in health metrics.
The News app now sports a refreshed design, introducing quick-access buttons for categories like sports, puzzles, politics, business, and food. Meanwhile, the Password app includes a new setting to manage websites where password-saving is restricted, improving privacy management.
A major functional addition is the AirPods Live Translation feature, now available to users in the European Union as part of Apple’s compliance with the Digital Markets Act. The Freeform app also gains table support, expanding its creative and organizational tools.
Also Read: Apple Adds Option to Turn Off Liquid Glass in iOS 26.1 Developer Beta
The Podcasts app sees smarter updates too, such as automatic chapter creation, related podcast mentions, and direct links to discussed topics. On the safety front, Apple has added a section for urgent safety alerts, where users can also enable display flashes to draw attention to critical warnings.
The iOS 26.2 Public Beta 1 can be downloaded by anyone enrolled in Apple’s public beta program. These updates build upon the recent iOS 26.1 release, continuing Apple’s trend of fine-tuning user experience through meaningful, user-driven changes.
