Apple has officially released iOS 26 Beta 2, and it’s packed with exciting updates. From subtle design improvements to smarter AI features and refreshed apps, this update continues to shape the future of iPhones. Whether you’re a developer, tech enthusiast, or just curious, here’s everything you need to know about what’s new in iOS 26 Beta 2.
Summary: iOS 26 Beta 2
Apple has released iOS 26 Beta 2 with fresh visual design tweaks, smarter AI-powered features, and important app updates. The new Liquid Glass interface looks smoother, the Messages app gets live typing indicators, AI chat wallpapers, and in-chat polls, while Photos, Camera, Safari, and CarPlay all receive smart upgrades. The update also improves performance, battery life, and adds stronger privacy protections. Currently available for developers, the public beta is expected by July 2025, with the final version launching in September 2025.
iOS 26 Beta 2 Release Date
Apple rolled out iOS 26 Beta 2 on June 23, 2025, just two weeks after the first beta was introduced at WWDC 2025. This version is available only to registered Apple developers for now, with a public beta expected in July 2025.
Refined “Liquid Glass” Visual Design
Apple has slightly polished the Liquid Glass interface, which was introduced in Beta 1. In Beta 2:
- Icons, widgets, and background layers now have enhanced translucency and shine.
- Notification banners look smoother.
- Animations across the system feel more fluid, creating a premium user experience.
This design language gives iPhones a more modern and elegant look.
Messages App Gets Smarter with AI
One of the most talked-about features in iOS 26 Beta 2 is the AI-powered Messages app. New features include:
- Smart Replies: Suggested responses powered by AI for quicker texting.
- Live Typing Indicators: See when someone is typing in real-time.
- Poll Creation in Chats: Create quick polls in group chats to make decisions.
- AI-Generated Backgrounds: Personalize your chat with intelligent wallpaper suggestions.
These tools make conversations faster, fun, and more interactive.
New Visual Intelligence Tools
iOS 26 Beta 2 introduces advanced Visual Intelligence, allowing your iPhone to:
- Analyze screenshots or images and extract useful info.
- Suggest calendar entries, reminders, or directions based on content in photos.
- Identify objects or text in images and perform actions directly, such as opening links or finding locations.
It’s like having a smart assistant inside your photo gallery.
Updated Camera and Photos Apps
- The Camera app in Beta 2 now launches faster and has new grid styles for better composition.
- Photos app includes better sorting tools and a new “Smart Highlights” feature that automatically creates albums based on time, people, and location.
- Editing tools now use AI to recommend filters and enhancements with one tap.
Safari Improvements
Safari has received subtle but important upgrades:
- Faster page loading speeds.
- Improved reader mode and tab organization.
- New privacy features to block third-party trackers more effectively.
New Control Center Tweaks
Beta 2 introduces changes in the Control Center layout:
- Easier access to Focus Modes.
- Larger buttons for brightness and volume.
- Customization tools are smoother and more stable than Beta 1.
Enhanced CarPlay Experience
CarPlay has also received a refresh in Beta 2:
- New visual themes.
- Smarter navigation interface.
- Better integration with Siri and Maps.
Performance and Battery Improvements
- App launch times are now quicker than Beta 1.
- Fewer bugs and crashes reported.
- Improved battery optimization, especially on iPhone 14 and 15 models.
Privacy & Security Upgrades
iOS 26 Beta 2 strengthens Apple’s privacy-first approach:
- New app permission alerts.
- Better control over background app activity.
- Extra security layers for sensitive data like Face ID and Apple Pay.
Supported Devices
iOS 26 Beta 2 can be installed on:
iPhone 15 seriesiPhone 14 seriesiPhone 13 seriesiPhone 12 seriesiPhone 11 seriesiPhone XS, XR, SE (2nd gen and above)
iPhone X and earlier models are not supported.
Expert Insight: Why iOS 26 Beta 2 Matters
This update shows Apple’s serious focus on user experience, visual appeal, and AI integration. With smarter tools and a more fluid interface, iOS 26 Beta 2 brings iPhones one step closer to becoming true AI-powered devices.
If you’re a developer or early adopter, iOS 26 Beta 2 is a stable and exciting version to explore. However, since it’s still a beta, expect a few bugs. If you prefer a smooth experience, it’s better to wait for the public beta in July or the final release in September 2025.