Apple has released iOS 26.1 beta 2 for developers, with a public beta expected soon.
iOS 26.1 beta 2 available now
Update includes design changes
Supports more languages for Apple Intelligence
Build number: 23B5059e
First beta launched two weeks ago
Public beta may arrive this week
No new features detailed yet
Apple has released iOS 26.1 beta 2 for developers. This update follows the first beta released two weeks ago.
Overview iOS 26.1 beta 2
Apple released iOS 26.1 beta 2 for developers on October 6, 2025, with the build number 23B5059e. This update arrives two weeks after the initial iOS 26.1 beta and is anticipated for a public beta release later this week.[1][2][3]
Alarm and Timer Improvements For iOS 26.1 beta 2
The update introduces a “Slide to Stop” gesture for alarms and timers, replacing the previous tap-to-stop design. This change reduces accidental dismissals by requiring a deliberate slide action to stop alarms or timers, while tapping still snoozes them.[4][1]
Return of Slide Over on iPad
iPadOS 26.1 beta 2 brings back the Slide Over multitasking feature that was removed in iPadOS 26. Unlike before, the new Slide Over supports only a single app but allows a floating window that can be easily hidden or resized for multitasking convenience.[3][5][1]
Audio and Mic Controls
Users can now adjust external microphone input gain directly from the Control Center. Additionally, there are new options to customize where locally captured audio recordings are saved, enhancing audio workflow flexibility.[1][3]
UI and Security Enhancements
The Settings app now left-aligns folder icons and text headers for improved readability.
A new toggle in the Privacy & Security settings enables automatic download and installation of security updates in the background.
Minor reversals and refinements were made to Calendar and Safari based on user feedback from beta 1.[6][4][1]
Additional Notes
The Fitness app now supports creating custom workouts by selecting workout types, calories, effort, and duration.
Visual updates continue to refine the Liquid Glass design language across the OS.
Currently, iOS 26.1 beta 2 is available to developers only, with a public beta expected shortly. The full stable release of iOS 26.1 is anticipated later this month.[3][1]
Luca Fischer is a senior technology journalist with more than twelve years of professional experience specializing in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and consumer electronics. L. Fischer earned his M.S. in Computer Science from Columbia University in 2011, where he developed a strong foundation in data science and network security before transitioning into tech media.
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She earned her B.A. in Cognitive Science from the University of California, Berkeley (2016), where she studied human-computer interaction, AI, and digital behavior.
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