iOS 26.2 Beta 2: What's in the iPhone Update

Adrian Mühlroth

November 13, 2025, 1:59 pm | Read time: 3 minutes

For about a week, Apple has been testing the update to iOS 26.2 in its beta version. It already includes several new features, such as additional customization options on the lock screen and an optimized sleep index. Now, the second beta for developers has been released, further improving the operating system.

More Liquid Glass in iOS 26.2

Many are bothered by the new look of Liquid Glass–the new design language Apple introduced with iOS 26. That’s why the operating system has offered a way to reduce transparency for better readability since iOS 26.1. However, some feel the new look doesn’t go far enough. On Reddit, users complain that important elements of the iOS interface are still missing and many animations don’t look like Apple first presented them at WWDC25.

A few key elements are much closer to the original vision for Liquid Glass after the update to iOS 26.2 Beta 2. The animations of the drop-down menus when customizing the home screen are buttery smooth and actually move like a liquid. Previously, the menus simply popped open–without the pulling, separating, and popping of the new elements:

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This improvement has also made its way into the Measure app. In the level tool, instead of two white circles, bubbles are now used that stretch like two water droplets before they spring apart.

Left: the old design of the level tool, Right: the new design in iOS 26.2 Beta 2

Enhanced Security Alerts

With iOS 26.2 Beta 1, Apple already introduced “Enhanced Security Alerts.” According to “MacRumors,” the current update includes more detailed information about how the alerts work, which appear in the event of an earthquake or flood, for example. They are issued for an affected region, which can be a country or a group of countries–such as in the EU–and are available via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or mobile data.

The option to turn them on and off is located in the settings under “Notifications” > “Enhanced Security Alerts.” The feature is not yet available in Germany.

iOS 26.2 Critical Security Flaws Found on iPhone–Update Now!

Update in Beta iOS 26.2 Introduces New Lock Screen Customization

Additional Updates

In the Games app, users now have the option to sort games in the library by size.
In the Messages app in CarPlay, pinned messages can now be turned off.

Also of interest: Apple Confirms Shorter Battery Life Due to iOS 26

Compatibility and Availability

iOS 26.2 Beta 2 is compatible with all iPhones that also support iOS 26. Currently, the update is only available for developers, but a public beta is expected to be released later this week. The actual launch is likely scheduled for mid-December.

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of TECHBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@techbook.de.