Apple rolls out iOS 26 Beta 2 with an all-new ringtone and other features

Apple iPhone

Apple has rolled out the second developer beta of iOS 26, delivering the first notable changes since its WWDC debut. While still early in testing, this update offers a mix of cosmetic refinements and functional enhancements across key apps and settings.

Control Center gets a visual polish: the Liquid Glass effect now has a heavier blur, creating a more opaque, readable interface. Accessibility tweaks also deepen this — the Reduce Transparency option now tones down visual effects further for improved clarity.

Safari users will notice a familiar layout tweak. The new tab button has been moved from the upper left to the bottom left in the tab view, aligning with the design in iOS 18. The Compact tab bar also gains back and forward buttons for better navigation.

The App Store now includes a new Accessibility section on app product pages. Developers are encouraged to list supported accessibility features, aiming to make app discovery easier for users with disabilities.

In Wallet, iOS 26 beta 2 activates the order tracking feature previewed at WWDC. Siri can now scan the Mail app for merchant emails and orders—even non-Apple Pay ones—streamlining tracking into one place.

A subtle but welcome change: the Ringtone settings now include a new variant called “Alt 1” under the Reflection tone, adding a bit of auditory variety.

Apple has also clarified what Low Power Mode actually does. The updated description now outlines reductions to processing speed, display refresh rate, 5G, iCloud syncing, and more — replacing the previously vague language.

Lastly, Live Captions gets a name change. “Transcribe Calls” is now “Save Call Transcripts,” with a clear note that a sound will alert participants before transcription begins — a nod to privacy.

Expect more refinements in the coming weeks as iOS 26 evolves before its public release.