On June 23, 2025, Apple released the second developer beta of iOS 26 (build 23A5276f), marking the first round of refinements since the OS’s unveiling at WWDC 2025. This coordinated beta update also rolled out matching beta 2 builds for iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, tvOS 26, visionOS 26, and watchOS 26, underscoring Apple’s unified cross-platform beta strategy. Since the initial beta dropped on June 9, developers have been experimenting with the new Liquid Glass design, expanded Apple Intelligence capabilities, and overhauled core apps. Beta 2 focuses on improving legibility, bolstering accessibility, and fine-tuning app experiences in preparation for the public beta in July and the final release expected this fall.
Beta 2 brings subtle but impactful tweaks to the Liquid Glass aesthetic. In Control Centre, the background blur behind the buttons has been increased, creating a more opaque backdrop that enhances contrast and readability against vibrant wallpapers. For users sensitive to motion or who prefer a more solid interface, the “Reduce Transparency” toggle under Accessibility further diminishes the Liquid Glass effect, offering a sturdier visual that can ease eye strain and improve focus.
Safari’s tab management interface has been adjusted based on early feedback. The “+” button for opening a new tab has been relocated back to the bottom-left corner mirroring its position in iOS 18 while the compact tab bar now explicitly shows both back and forward arrows for quicker navigation. Simultaneously, the App Store introduces a dedicated Accessibility section on each product page. Developers are now prompted to supply information about supported assistive technologies, empowering users to make informed download decisions and highlighting inclusive design practices.
iOS 26 beta 2 fully activates the order tracking feature previewed at WWDC. Users can opt in to let Siri scan the Mail app for receipts and merchant emails regardless of whether a purchase was made via Apple Pay, and consolidate all orders into Wallet’s new “Orders” interface. This capability relies on on-device Apple Intelligence to securely parse emails, and can be accessed by tapping the overflow menu (“…”) within the Wallet app. Early reports indicate that this integrated workflow could replace multiple standalone tracking apps for many users .
For personalization, beta 2 introduces an alternate version of the Reflection ringtone labeled “Alt 1.” Users can select this fresh audio option under Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone, offering a subtle twist on the familiar tone. On the widget front, a new Live Radio tile from Apple Music is now available. This widget allows users to pin real-time broadcasts directly to their Home or Lock Screen, streamlining access to favourite stations without launching the Music app.
Low Power Mode receives a more comprehensive description, detailing that it temporarily reduces background tasks, processing speed, display refresh rate, brightness, and limits features like 5G, iCloud syncing, and mail fetch to conserve battery life. Meanwhile, the Live Captions feature is rebranded: “Transcribe Calls” becomes “Save Call Transcripts,” and an audible tone now notifies all call participants before transcription begins, reinforcing transparency for users who are deaf or hard of hearing.
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