Apple has released the second public betas of iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1, giving users outside the developer program an early look at what’s next for iPhone and iPad.
The updates come just a day after developers got their hands on the same builds.
What’s New in iOS 26.1 Public Beta 2
This update adds a mix of new features, refinements, and design tweaks that continue Apple’s work on the iOS 26 experience.
- Expanded Apple Intelligence languages: Apple Intelligence now supports Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Traditional Chinese, and Vietnamese.
- AirPods Live Translation: The feature is now available in Japanese, Korean, Italian, and Chinese (both Mandarin Traditional and Simplified).
- New “Slide to Stop” for alarms: Instead of a tap, alarms now require a slide gesture to stop, reducing accidental dismissals.
- Settings app tweaks: Apple has adjusted icon and text alignment, giving the interface a cleaner, more consistent look.
- Other subtle updates: Minor refinements have been spotted in apps like Photos, Music, and Phone as Apple polishes the overall design.
Suggested: Everything New in iOS 26.1 Beta 2: Alarms, Slide Over, and Small But Smart Tweaks
What’s New in iPadOS 26.1 Public Beta 2
On the iPad side, Apple has reintroduced Slide Over multitasking, a feature that was removed in iPadOS 26 when windowed multitasking debuted.
Now, users can once again open a single app in Slide Over mode above other windows. The feature works alongside the new multitasking system, allowing a smoother, more flexible workspace.
To enable it, tap the green window icon in an app and select “Enter Slide Over.” You can then swipe to hide or bring back the overlay and even resize it — something new in this beta.
How to Get the Update
If you’re part of the Apple Beta Software Program, you can install the new builds by heading to: Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates > iOS 26 Public Beta.
Make sure your device is backed up before updating, as public betas can still include bugs and unfinished features.
iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1 Public Beta 2 continue refining Apple’s 2025 software lineup — and if the early builds are any indication, the company is focused on smaller, smarter changes rather than flashy new features this time around.
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