Apple drops second release candidate for iOS 26.2 update: All the details

Apple has released the second release candidate (RC) of iOS 26.2 for developers and public beta testers, indicating that the stable rollout is nearing. The RC build, typically the final version before a public release, suggests that iPhone users could receive the update soon. The new version carries build number 23C54, replacing the earlier RC build 23C52.

What’s new in iOS 26.2 RC

The update carries a mix of design refinements, feature rollouts, and functional improvements across system apps. One of the noticeable additions is the Liquid Glass slider on the Lock Screen, allowing users to adjust the transparency of the clock. This further expands Apple’s Liquid Glass design language, which first appeared at WWDC and continues to make its way across system elements.

iOS 26.2 also enables AirPods Live Translation for users in the European Union, extending the feature beyond select regions. For productivity, the Reminders app is set to support alarms for due tasks, improving time-based notifications.

Updated Measure app and interface animations

Apple has redesigned the level tool inside the Measure app with a Liquid Glass aesthetic. The traditional white circle indicators have been replaced with fluid, translucent bubbles for a more modern look. This aligns with Apple’s broader design shift across iOS.

Menu animations across the system have also been refined. Pop-out menus now load with faster and more responsive transitions, bringing them closer to what Apple initially previewed during WWDC demos.

Games app improvements and CarPlay changes

The Games app receives practical upgrades, including a new option to sort the library by file size in addition to existing criteria. Real-time score updates and smoother controller navigation further enhance the gaming experience.

CarPlay users will notice a new setting that allows disabling pinned conversations in Messages, giving drivers more control over what appears on their dashboard interface.

Enhanced Safety Alerts explained

Apple has added clearer information about how Enhanced Safety Alerts work. The feature sends emergency notifications—such as earthquake or flood alerts—based on available connectivity. While it uses device location to identify relevant regions, Apple notes the system does not store this data permanently.