Apple has rolled out iOS 26.1 Public Beta 2 for compatible iPhone models, offering a host of usability enhancements and interface refinements. The update closely mirrors the earlier developer build and focuses on improving user experience, introducing subtle design tweaks, and providing more control over system functions.
What’s New in iOS 26.1 Public Beta 2
- Redesigned Alarms and Timer Controls
iOS 26.1 introduces a new ‘Slide to Stop’ gesture for alarms and timers. Apple has redesigned these controls for better accessibility, replacing the traditional tap-to-dismiss function with a swipe, reducing the risk of accidentally stopping an alarm when trying to snooze it. - Enhanced Audio and Microphone Control
Users can now adjust external microphone gain directly from the Control Center. Additionally, iOS 26.1 allows you to select where locally recorded audio files are stored, offering greater flexibility when using attached microphones for recordings. - UI and Layout Refinements
Apple has refined several interface elements:
- Calendar events return to their default color style, replacing full-width fills introduced in Beta 1.
- App folder names and settings titles are now left-aligned for a cleaner, more consistent look.
- Minor layout tweaks across menus improve overall navigation and visual coherence.
Supported Devices
iOS 26.1 Public Beta 2 is compatible with the following iPhone models:
- iPhone 17 series: iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, 17 Air
- iPhone 16 series: iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, 16e
- iPhone 15 series: iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 series: iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 series: iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 series: iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 series: iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE: 2nd generation and later
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How to Install iOS 26.1 Public Beta 2
- Enroll in the Apple Beta Program via beta.apple.com
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Tap Beta Updates and select iOS 26.1 Public Beta
- Return to the Software Update page and wait for the update to appear
- Accept Apple’s terms and initiate the download
- Once downloaded, the installation process will begin automatically
iOS 26.1 Public Beta 2 continues Apple’s efforts to refine iOS 26, offering smoother usability, better interface consistency, and enhanced audio controls. Users participating in the public beta can expect these improvements to carry over to the stable release, expected next month.