iOS 26.2 beta: The biggest new features
Apple has recently released the beta version of iOS 26.2 for iPhone users, marking the second update in the iOS 26 series. While this update is not expected to be groundbreaking, it introduces several noteworthy features and enhancements that improve user experience. Tech enthusiasts at 9to5Mac have explored the beta and highlighted some of the most significant changes that users can look forward to when the full version rolls out.
One of the most intriguing updates is in the Apple Podcasts app, where listeners will benefit from AI-generated chapters complete with timestamps. This feature allows podcast creators to either use the AI-generated chapters or create their own, providing a helpful guide for navigating content—especially useful for avoiding spoilers in discussions about movies or shows. Additionally, a new “Podcast Mentions” feature will link to other podcasts referenced during episodes, enhancing the interconnectedness of content. In another area, Apple has refined the Sleep Score system on the Apple Watch, adjusting the classifications to be slightly less forgiving. The new scoring ranges provide a more nuanced view of sleep quality, which could encourage users to prioritize better sleep habits.
The update also includes a redesign of the Apple News app, making it easier for users to access their favorite topics with dedicated buttons for categories such as food, puzzles, politics, and sports. A new “Following” tab will help users keep track of saved stories and favorites, streamlining the news consumption experience. Lastly, Apple continues to enhance its Liquid Glass lock screen customization options. With the new beta, users can now adjust the opacity of the clock on their lock screen, giving them more control over the appearance of their device. Although these changes may seem minor, they reflect Apple’s commitment to refining user interfaces and enhancing the overall functionality of its ecosystem. As the full version of iOS 26.2 approaches, users can anticipate these thoughtful updates that aim to improve daily interactions with their devices.
Apple
has a new
iOS
beta out now for your perusal.
Specifically, the
beta for iOS 26.2
is out now for
iPhone
users. As the second update to iOS 26, it doesn’t seem like it’s going to be especially transformative or revolutionary. But, the fine folks at places like
9to5Mac
have dug into iOS 26.2 and come back with information about the biggest new features you can expect when the update drops in the near-ish future.
SEE ALSO:
iOS 26.2, macOS 26.2, and iPadOS 26.2 betas are here: How to download
iOS 26.2 beta: The biggest new features
Here’s what you can expect from iOS 26.2.
Changes to Apple Podcasts
As I said, iOS 26.2 isn’t a huge update. Many of the changes are minor updates to apps and whatnot, starting with Apple Podcasts.
Specifically, podcasts will now have AI-generated chapters with timestamps. Podcast creators are free to make their own chapters that will override the AI-generated ones, but if they don’t feel like doing that, you’ll at least have
something
to use as a guide for when to avoid spoiler discussions about a movie you haven’t seen yet. There’s also a new “Podcast Mentions” feature that will link to other podcasts that are mentioned in the one you’re listening to.
Sleep Score adjustments
Interestingly, Apple decided to refine the
Apple Watch
Sleep Score system. Here are the new score classifications, with the previous ones in parenthesis:
Very Low: 0-40 (was 0-29 before)
Low: 41-60 (was 30-49 before)
OK: 61-80 (was 50-69 before)
High: 81-95 (was 70-89 before)
Excellent: 96-100 (was 90-100 before)
In other words, it’s a little less forgiving than it used to be.
Apple News redesign
Apple also made some UI changes to the Apple News app. For instance, the “Today” screen now has easy-access buttons for food, puzzles, politics, and sports, so you don’t have to seek those out yourself. There’s also a new “Following” tab that will surface stories you’ve saved and things you’ve favorited.
Liquid Glass lock screen customization
Lastly, Apple is continuing its quest to make people like Liquid Glass more.
After
introducing an ability
to tint the Liquid Glass UI in iOS 26.1, the new iOS 26.2 beta gives you even more control over it. There’s now a slider that lets you adjust the opacity of the clock on your lock screen. This isn’t a huge change, but it should be welcome for people who really, really don’t like Liquid Glass.
