Apple has officially released iOS 26 Beta 2, the second major developer preview of its upcoming iPhone operating system. This version includes several fixes and enhancements, notably resolving key interface issues introduced in the first beta, and adding new widgets and accessibility features. The update comes nearly a month after the company introduced iOS 26 at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2025).
Liquid Glass Transparency Tweaked After Complaints
The biggest update in iOS 26 Beta 2 addresses the Liquid Glass UI, a translucent design language introduced in the initial version. Many users had complained about poor legibility, especially in the Control Center, where text became unreadable against light or vivid backgrounds.
With Beta 2, Apple has refined the design by reducing transparency and adding a subtle blur. This change makes the UI more usable while still maintaining the design’s futuristic look. For users who prefer less translucency, the system also allows toggling the ‘Reduce Transparency’ option under Settings > Accessibility.
Safari and Music App Updates
Beta 2 represents several small but remarkable modifications of functions. In Safari, the “+” icon was now moved to the bottom left for opening a new card and returned to the layout of a similar iOS 18. This change is focused on facilitating navigation for one-handed use.
Meanwhile, the music app gets a new live radio widget that can be added to the home screen. This feature provides users faster access to radio streaming stations and expands the content of content in real time.
Accessibility and Call Transcription Updates
Apple continues to enhance accessibility. The App Store now features a dedicated Accessibility Information section on app product pages. Developers can voluntarily share details on how their apps support users with disabilities.
The Transcribe Calls feature has also been renamed to “Save Call Transcripts.” As part of a privacy-focused approach, Apple will now notify all participants with an audio tone before any call transcription begins. This update aligns with privacy expectations and legal requirements in many regions.
Device Compatibility and Rollout
iOS 26 Beta 2 is currently available for download by registered developers. It supports iPhone 12 Pro and newer, including select non-Pro iPhone 14 models. Public beta access is expected in the coming weeks, and the final release is anticipated by September 2025.
Apple has not yet announced any significant feature removals or known issues with this beta, making it one of the more stable pre-release versions of iOS to date.
Summary at a Glance:
- Liquid Glass UI gets improved for better readability
- Safari’s “+” tab button moved to bottom-left for ease
- Live Radio widget introduced in the Music app
- New Accessibility section added to App Store pages
- “Transcribe Calls” renamed to “Save Call Transcripts” with privacy tone alert
- Available for iPhone 12 Pro and newer models
