iOS 26 Beta 2 Update: Apple Refines Liquid Glass Effect, Adds New Features to Safari, Wallet, Siri, and More

Apple has officially rolled out iOS 26 Beta 2 for developers, and it comes with several visual and functional improvements based on early user feedback. The most notable change is the refinement of the much-debated Liquid Glass design, a bold new visual language introduced in iOS 26 Beta 1. This second beta version focuses on enhancing usability, improving legibility, and adding new features across various apps like Safari, Wallet, Siri, and the App Store.

In this article, we’ll break down all the major updates in iOS 26 Beta 2, including design tweaks, accessibility improvements, app upgrades, and what users can expect when the public beta and final release roll out. Whether you’re a developer, iPhone enthusiast, or someone eagerly waiting to try the latest iOS version, this comprehensive guide will give you everything you need to know.

Liquid Glass Effect Gets a Major Overhaul

When Apple unveiled the Liquid Glass interface in the first iOS 26 beta, it sparked mixed reactions from developers and tech enthusiasts. While some appreciated the modern aesthetics, others complained about readability and excessive transparency, especially in the Control Center and background elements.

With iOS 26 Beta 2, Apple has responded swiftly to this feedback:

• Enhanced Blur Effect: The new update introduces a stronger blur overlay in Control Center, making it easier to distinguish between controls and the background. This makes icons and toggles more readable in all lighting conditions.
• Darker Backgrounds: Apple has subtly darkened the background of various system components to improve contrast without sacrificing the futuristic Liquid Glass aesthetic.

These changes make the Liquid Glass design feel more balanced and user-friendly, especially for those with vision sensitivity.

Accessibility Improvements: Reduced Transparency Gets a Boost

One of the most significant quality-of-life enhancements in iOS 26 Beta 2 is the improvement in Accessibility settings, particularly the Reduce Transparency feature.

In previous iOS versions, this setting moderately reduced visual effects to improve clarity for users with visual impairments. In the latest beta, Apple has dialed up the effectiveness of Reduce Transparency:

• Interface elements like menu backgrounds and icons now appear more opaque.
• Text readability is significantly improved across Settings, Notifications, and other core iOS components.
• Users with visual sensitivity will notice less eye strain and greater comfort while using the phone.

This reinforces Apple’s ongoing commitment to making iOS more inclusive for all users.

Safari UI Update: New Tab Button Moves to a More Convenient Spot

Another practical enhancement in iOS 26 Beta 2 is the Safari browser interface update. One subtle yet meaningful change is the repositioning of the new tab button (+):

• Previously located at the far right, the new tab button is now situated in the bottom-left corner, right next to the URL/search bar.
• This new position is more ergonomic, especially for users holding their iPhone with one hand.

This change may seem minor, but it aligns with Apple’s trend toward one-handed usability, particularly for devices with larger screens like the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the upcoming iPhone 17 series.

Wallet App Adds Package Tracking with Siri Integration

Apple’s Wallet app also receives a noteworthy upgrade in iOS 26 Beta 2. The new feature allows users to track packages directly within the Wallet app. This streamlines the experience of managing orders and deliveries, eliminating the need for third-party tracking apps.

• Also Check: iOS 26 Exclusive Features: 8 Powerful Tools Only Available on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max & iPhone 16 Series

Here’s what’s new:

• Wallet now automatically detects package tracking numbers from emails and messages.
• Users can view delivery status in real-time directly from the Wallet app interface.
• Siri Integration: Siri can now scan your email inbox to find tracking numbers and add them to Wallet, allowing for a seamless voice-command-driven experience.

This feature is expected to be a game-changer for online shoppers and adds practical utility to Wallet beyond payment management and digital passes.

App Store Listings Now Feature Dedicated Accessibility Section

To make it easier for users with special needs to find suitable apps, Apple has introduced a new Accessibility section in App Store listings. This change aims to highlight features like:

• VoiceOver support
• Closed captions
• Dynamic text compatibility
• Haptic feedback and gesture navigation

Developers can now showcase how their apps accommodate users with disabilities, helping them reach a broader audience while empowering users to make informed decisions.

Apple Music Gets a Live Radio Widget and a New Ringtone

The Apple Music app is also getting an update with iOS 26 Beta 2. A new Live Radio widget is now available, letting users listen to live broadcasts right from the Home Screen or Today View. This feature supports a range of radio stations, from Beats 1 to regional music channels.

In addition, a brand-new ringtone called “Alt 1” has been added. It’s a clean, minimalistic tone that fits well with Apple’s refined aesthetic in iOS 26. Users looking for a fresh audio identity will likely enjoy the addition.

When Will the iOS 26 Public Beta Launch

Now that iOS 26 Beta 2 is available to developers, many iPhone users are wondering when they can get their hands on the iOS 26 public beta.

According to Apple’s roadmap and historical patterns:

• Public Beta Release: Expected to roll out in July 2025.
• Final Consumer Version: The official stable version of iOS 26 is expected to launch in Fall 2025, likely alongside the iPhone 17 series in September.

The public beta will be free and open to anyone who registers for Apple’s Beta Software Program.

Final Thoughts: iOS 26 Beta 2 Brings Polished Design and Smarter Features

With iOS 26 Beta 2, Apple shows it’s listening to feedback and fine-tuning its next major mobile OS update. From improving the Liquid Glass UI to enhancing accessibility and adding practical features in Safari, Wallet, and Siri, this version feels more refined and ready for a broader audience.

Whether you’re excited about the new Safari layout, the Live Radio widget, or simply looking for a more comfortable and readable interface, iOS 26 Beta 2 lays a strong foundation for what could be one of the most polished iOS updates in recent years.