Apple iOS 26.2 beta may arrive November 4, 2025: Here's what to expect

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Apple is reportedly preparing to roll out the iOS 26.2 beta as early as November 4, 2025, following the public release of iOS 26.1 on November 3. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company is maintaining its rapid update cycle, with minor refinements and feature testing expected to continue through the beta period.

iOS 26.1 update arrives first

The iOS 26.1 update is set for release on Monday, introducing a new ‘Liquid Glass Tinted’ toggle aimed at improving screen readability. This feature lets users tone down display reflections while slightly reducing the visual sheen. The update also includes stability improvements and minor performance tweaks across supported iPhone models.

iOS 26.2 beta: what to expect

Once the iOS 26.1 rollout is complete, Apple is expected to seed the first iOS 26.2 beta to developers. The update will likely focus on under-the-hood optimizations and minor refinements. Gurman reports that the initial build may not include any major user-facing changes, with Apple traditionally adding new features in later beta versions.

Some early speculation suggests that Apple could use iOS 26.2 to expand testing of features like end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging and improved integration for US passport support in Apple Wallet. Both updates have been teased for release before the end of the year.

Release timeline

If Apple follows its usual schedule, iOS 26.2 is expected to reach public release by mid-December 2025 after several beta rounds. Users enrolled in the Apple Developer or Public Beta Program will be able to download the early version through the Settings app once it goes live.

The upcoming beta signals Apple’s continued emphasis on frequent, incremental updates designed to polish the iPhone experience ahead of next year’s major iOS 27 cycle.