Apple’s relentless pursuit of mobile perfection continues with the second beta of iOS 26, and let me tell you, this update is packed with some seriously impressive refinements and entirely new features that have me genuinely excited. While the initial beta laid the groundwork, Beta 2 feels more polished, more functional, and frankly, more fun. After diving deep into the latest build, here are my eight favorite new features and changes that are making my iPhone experience even better.
1. Hyper-Intuitive Siri Interaction
Siri just got a major brain boost. The way it now anticipates your next move and offers contextually relevant suggestions is nothing short of magic. No more awkward back-and-forth; Siri feels less like a voice assistant and more like a proactive digital companion. I’ve found myself relying on it for tasks I never considered before, simply because it’s so seamless.
2. Revamped Widgets with Deeper Interactivity
Widgets have evolved from static glanceable information to dynamic command centers. The ability to perform actions directly from your Home Screen or Lock Screen without opening the app is a game-changer. Imagine replying to a message or controlling your smart home devices with just a tap – it’s all here, and it’s beautifully implemented.
3. Advanced Focus Mode Personalization
Focus Modes have become incredibly granular. Beyond simply silencing notifications, you can now tailor app access, specific Home Screen pages, and even Smart Stack inclusions based on your chosen Focus. This level of control allows for truly distraction-free work sessions and genuinely relaxing downtime.
4. Enhanced Live Text for Video
Live Text was already impressive, but its expansion to live video streams in Beta 2 is a revelation. Need to grab a phone number from a YouTube tutorial or translate text from a streaming service? You can now do it effortlessly. This is a productivity powerhouse for content consumers.
5. Deeper Privacy Controls with App Tracking Transparency Plus
Apple is doubling down on privacy, and the new App Tracking Transparency Plus features offer an even more transparent and controlled look at how your data is being used by apps. The updated dashboard is clearer, and the opt-out options are more robust, giving users greater peace of mind.
6. Smarter Stage Manager on iPad (and Hints for iPhone?)
While primarily an iPadOS feature, the underlying improvements to multitasking and window management in Stage Manager are palpable. The fluidity and intuitiveness are significantly enhanced, and dare I say, I’m seeing hints of this smarter multitasking approach making its way to how we handle apps on the iPhone in future updates.
7. Reimagined Control Center with Customizable Shortcuts
The Control Center is now more powerful and personalized than ever. The ability to add and rearrange a wider array of controls, including custom shortcuts to specific app functions, means you can tailor your most-used actions to be instantly accessible.
8. Improved Haptic Feedback and UI Responsiveness
It might sound subtle, but the nuanced improvements to haptic feedback and overall UI responsiveness in Beta 2 are a joy. Every tap, swipe, and interaction feels more satisfying and deliberate, contributing to a more premium and engaging user experience.
While every beta has its quirks, iOS 26 Beta 2 showcases Apple’s commitment to refining the iPhone experience. These eight features alone make upgrading to this beta a worthwhile endeavor for any enthusiast. Which of these new additions are you most excited about?