iOS 26 Developer Beta 2: Apple takes the glass off the iPhone again
The first pre-release version of iOS 26 received a lot of criticism. The second version brings a lot of improvements, including some of a visual nature.
Example of better readability in iOS 26 Developer Beta 2: Here on the left is the new Control Center.
(Image: Screenshot Mac & i)
Apple released the second developer preview version of iOS 26 online on Tuesday night, along with other new betas. With the new version, the manufacturer is addressing some points of criticism that arose from the first pre-release version, including the clarity of the new interface thanks to the “Liquid Glass” design.
Design and Safari
Apple has improved the Control Center, which was previously particularly difficult to read, in two places. Both the background and the individual buttons now shine through less. In practice, this means that you can see the controls much better, although the Liquid Glass design is no longer implemented quite as consistently. At the same time, Apple has also tweaked the “Reduce transparency” function in the settings for the operating aids: if you activate this, the operating system becomes even less glassy.
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There are also improvements in Safari, where Apple has moved the button for creating new tabs back to its old position and tidied up the “More” menu. Apple Music has a new Live Radio widget (also for CarPlay). Apple has improved the descriptions for the Live Caption function – Call partners are informed with a sound. The power saving mode is also explained in more detail.
Order tracking in Apple Wallet
Testers have also discovered a new ringtone, the Apple Wallet comes with the announced tracking of orders (for which Siri can also scan emails that were not paid for with Apple Pay) and the App Store now provides information on the accessibility of each program (developers often still have to deliver).
iOS 26 is expected to be released in September 2025. The first public beta of the operating system is expected in July. Currently, only registered developers can test the new iPhone interface. In addition to iOS 26, Apple has also released second developer betas of macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26 and iPadOS 26. macOS 26 allows the menu bar to be given a background again to make it easier to read. Apple has also correctly inverted the Finder file manager icon again, a small but significant point of criticism.
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