iOS 26 is moving into its next phase of testing with Public Beta 2 now live for all enrolled users. This build isn’t stuffed with flashy new features, but it smooths out rough edges, fixes quirks from the first beta, and sneaks in a few under-the-radar updates that hint at what Apple is shaping for the final release.
iOS 26 Public Beta 2 refines stability and speed
Testers are reporting faster app launches and smoother animations compared to the first beta. Some lag in multitasking views has been ironed out, and systemwide transitions feel more consistent. It’s not night-and-day faster, but the cumulative effect makes the OS feel closer to release quality.
Former Apple employee Sebastiaan de With revealed the design of iOS 26. The new design was liked by many people.
Visual changes in iOS 26 are small but noticeable
The update tweaks icon alignment on the Home Screen, adjusts Control Center spacing, and polishes the look of certain system alerts. Apple’s focus here seems to be on subtle UI cohesion those tiny alignment changes that you only notice after living with them.
Other tweaks spotted by testers
Public Beta 2 brings minor refinements to features introduced earlier in the cycle. Some app icons now adapt better to dark mode, Apple Music’s Now Playing screen has cleaner typography, and Safari’s tab management feels snappier. These aren’t headline features, but they help the OS feel more finished.
Bug fixes target early beta pain points
Crashes when opening certain widgets appear resolved, and battery drain during standby has improved for some devices. While not every issue is gone, the most disruptive bugs from Beta 1 seem to be under control. Apple’s release notes are vague, but user feedback points to a more stable daily driver.
- Improved animation smoothness
- Better dark mode icon rendering
- Apple Music UI refinements
- Reduced battery drain in standby
- Fewer widget-related crashes
iOS 26 still has work before launch
Beta 2 feels more stable, but the finish line isn’t here yet. There’s time for Apple to drop a few surprises or pull back features that aren’t ready. For now, Public Beta 2 is a safer taste of iOS 26 for curious testers, without the chaos of the first round.
The polish is coming in thin layers but it’s coming.
