Apple continues testing its next iPhone software update with iOS 26.2 Beta 3, released today. Pre-release iPhone software updates include a surprising number of changes and improvements. Here’s what’s new so far:
AirDrop code
As we’ve been reporting, Apple is developing a new AirDrop feature that will allow users to AirDrop between devices without saving contacts for 30 days. iOS 26.2 Beta 3 was the first version to reveal early signs of this feature in the AirDrop section of Settings.
Learn more about upcoming AirDrop code features here.
liquid glass level
Last week, Apple introduced an all-new liquid glass-inspired level design within the Measure app in iOS 26.2 Beta 2. In iOS 26.2 Beta 3, Apple has further improved the design so that the numbers displayed in certain situations are less confusing.
Learn more about the new design here.
Split view and slideover in iPadOS
Apple brought back Slide Over with iPadOS 26.1, and now Apple is improving another multitasking feature left over from iOS 18. Starting with iPadOS 26.2 Beta 3, you can now drag app icons from the Dock to enter Slide Over or Split View while multitasking.
Learn more about multitasking changes.
Default voice assistant code
The leaked code shows signs that Apple is developing a feature that will replace invoking Siri as the default action that occurs when you press the side button. This is only available in Japan as a regulatory requirement.
Learn more about leaked code references here.
Today’s changes are in addition to those seen in iOS 26.2 Beta 1 and 2.
Game app navigation
The gaming app adds sorting and filtering for libraries, controller navigation, and real-time score updates during playback.
Redesign of measures
Adds liquid glass designs to levels within the Measure app.
Message CarPlay Update
Messages pinned conversations can now be disabled in CarPlay settings.
more
- The animation when tapping a button to open a menu is now smoother.
Edge Light feature in macOS 26 Tahoe
Apple is introducing a new built-in feature for Mac called Edge Light. Create a virtual ring light using your Mac’s screen to enhance the lighting on your video calls.
Learn more about Edge Light on Mac and how it works.
Change in sleep score
Apple is changing the way sleep scores work in sleep tracking. Very High replaces Excellent as the highest category, and the thresholds for each category have changed as well. This follows feedback from users who criticize the range of sleep scores being too wide and Excellent being too positive.
Learn more about the changes here.
Apple Podcasts app enhancements
Apple uses AI to improve the Apple Podcasts app experience. Starting with iOS 26.2, apps can now use AI to automatically generate chapters, link to referenced podcasts, and collect show links.
Click here to learn more about the update.
Apple news design
iOS 26 itself is a major redesign. With iOS 26.2, Apple is further improving the News app experience with quick links to popular sections within the app.
Click here to learn more about the design changes.
AirPods Live Translation in the EU
According to Apple, AirPods Live Translation will be supported in European Union countries starting in December. That’s probably when iOS 26.2 is released and out of beta.
Learn more about our deployment plan here.
liquid glass lock screen slider
Apple has added a more dramatic liquid glass slider that adjusts the level of translucency of the clock on the lock screen. Now works for each font option.
Learn more about lock screen customization options.
Reminders add alarms and timers
iOS 26.2 introduces the ability to trigger an alarm when an urgent reminder is due. This provides a much higher level of notification than recurring alerts or continuous time-limited alerts. Alarms and timers can also break through focus mode.
Learn more about new features here.
