quickutilities – Apple has rolled out iOS 26 Beta 2 for iPhone, following the first beta introduced shortly after WWDC 2025. The latest version brings notable user interface improvements and critical bug fixes. Among the most visible changes is an increase in background blur for the Control Centre, part of Apple’s Liquid Glass design.
Users previously reported difficulty reading the Control Centre when lighter wallpapers were applied. This was due to reduced contrast in the new design. The additional blur in Beta 2 helps improve legibility by enhancing the separation between the background and interactive elements. In addition to these visual updates, Apple has taken user feedback into account to deliver a more polished and accessible experience ahead of the full release later this year.
New Control Options and Accessibility Tweaks
With iOS 26 Beta 2, users now have more control over the system’s visual transparency. A new toggle under Accessibility settings allows users to reduce interface transparency. This makes it easier for those who find the default design difficult to read or navigate.
The new “Reduce Transparency” setting helps users customize their viewing experience based on personal preference or accessibility needs. Apple continues to show commitment to inclusivity by refining these types of visual features. This option is particularly useful for those affected by the layered blur in the Liquid Glass UI. It reflects Apple’s broader effort to balance aesthetics with usability.
Fresh Widgets and Updated System Labels
Apple has added two new widgets for Apple Music. One enables quick access to Live Radio, and the other allows users to search for songs directly from the lock screen. These widgets enhance daily usability by bringing more functionality to the iPhone’s front-facing interface.
In addition, the Live Captions feature now includes a renamed setting. The option formerly called “Transcribe Calls” is now labeled “Save Call Transcripts.” This change clarifies the feature’s purpose and makes it easier to find within system settings. The Wallet app also sees improvements. It now supports order tracking, allowing Siri to scan the Mail app for merchant-related updates. This helps users track their deliveries without needing third-party apps.
Smaller Changes Refine the User Experience
Several minor updates are included in iOS 26 Beta 2. These include a revised description for Low Power Mode and the addition of a new system ringtone named “Alt 1.” The App Store now features a dedicated Accessibility section for easier discovery of supportive apps.
In Safari, the “+” tab icon has been relocated when users enter the tab management view. These small refinements show Apple’s attention to detail and continuous improvement across the operating system. While individually minor, such adjustments collectively improve how users interact with the iPhone’s core apps and features.
iOS 26 Beta 2 Fixes Boot Issue for iPhone 16
One of the most important changes in Beta 2 is a fix for a boot issue affecting iPhone 16 models. Several users reported that devices failed to start after installing iOS 26 Beta 1, instead displaying only a low battery symbol. Apple has provided a fix that involves connecting the iPhone to a computer and restoring it via Finder on Mac or the Apple Devices app on Windows. The procedure requires holding specific buttons during startup to access recovery mode.
Once the iPhone is recognized by the computer, users can restore to an updated iOS 26 Beta 1 or revert to iOS 18. After restoring, users can recover their data from a backup if one is available. These fixes indicate Apple is actively addressing early-stage issues as it continues refining iOS 26 before its public release.
