Apple has just released iOS 26 beta 2 and iPadOS 26 beta 2 for developers. Here’s how to install the OTA update and what’s new in this build.
You Can Now Download and Install iOS 26 Beta 2 and iPadOS 26 Beta 2 on Your Compatible iPhone and iPad
Just two weeks after the first beta, Apple has pushed out iOS 26 beta 2 and iPadOS 26 beta 2, bringing more polish, stability, and a few under-the-hood changes to its next major software update.
While the first beta introduced headlining features like Apple Intelligence, redesigned Messages apps, Live Activities for iPad, and smarter Siri integration, this second beta likely focuses more on performance improvements, bug fixes, and refining new features based on early developer feedback.
It is not clear at this point exactly what changes have been made, but stay tuned for those updates! Normally I would not expect any major visual overhauls or brand-new features in this release as Apple tends to reserve larger additions for mid-cycle betas. However, given the mixed opinions coming in from beta testers about certain Liquid Glass UI elements, we already have some some new changes on that front.
What’s New in iOS 26 Beta 2
- Motion-Reactive Wallpaper
The default iOS 26 wallpaper now subtly shifts with your iPhone’s movement, adding a dynamic feel to the Home and Lock Screen. - Wallet App Gets Physical
You can now add physical credit or debit card info to the Wallet app—finally bridging the gap between your real and digital cards. - Lock Screen Notification Glitch Fixed
The disappearing clear-all button for notifications on the Lock Screen is now working as expected. - Safari Tab Button Back at the Bottom
In a quiet reversal, the new tab button has been moved back to the bottom of Safari for easier reachability. - Smarter Screenshot Options
When you take a screenshot, options like ‘Ask’ and ‘Image Search’ now appear more consistently. - Refreshed Safari Menu Look
Minor but noticeable UI refinements have landed in Safari’s overflow menu for a cleaner experience. - ChatGPT Integration Tweaked
Requests to ChatGPT are now categorized into “Image Limit” and “Other Requests,” helping to manage queries more clearly. - Badge Color Tweaks for Messages
Messages from unknown senders now use a blue notification badge instead of red, making it easier to spot who’s who. - UI Borders in High Contrast Mode
Apple has added sharper borders for key interface elements when using High Contrast mode, improving accessibility across the board.. - New Ringtone AlertNew
‘Alt 1’ ring tone is now accessible! This ring tone was earlier leaked in beta 1, but was not accessible in Settings.
Related: 5 iOS 26 Features Apple Copied from Android
How to Install iOS 26 Beta 2 or iPadOS 26 Beta 2
Before you begin, make sure your device is eligible: [Check iOS 26 Supported Devices].
If you’re already on beta 1, updating is easy. If not, follow these steps:
1. Join the Developer Program
Go to developer.apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID. Registration is free for beta access.
2. Enable Beta Updates
On your iPhone or iPad: Head to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates, and select iOS 26 Developer Beta or iPadOS 26 Developer Beta.
3. Download and Install
Once selected, return to the Software Update screen and you’ll see Beta 2 ready to download. Tap Download and Install, stay connected to Wi-Fi, and make sure your device is plugged in.
Should You Install It?
This is still early beta software, so while it’s more stable than beta 1, bugs are to be expected. If you’re using your iPhone or iPad as your main device, it’s best to wait for the public beta or final release.
But if you’re a developer or just curious about what’s next in iOS and iPadOS, beta 2 is a solid way to explore what Apple has in store for this fall.
Comments