iOS 26 Public Beta 2 Released with Subtle Interface Tweaks

The second public beta of iOS 26 is now available for users registered with Apple’s beta software program. This release follows five developer betas and introduces several minor adjustments to the operating system.

Beta testers can access the update via Settings > General > Software Update > iOS Public Beta. Individuals not currently enrolled in the beta program can find instructions on how to register through Apple’s support channels.

While Apple has yet to publish formal release notes detailing all modifications, early user feedback circulating on platforms like Reddit suggests that iOS 26 public beta 2 largely mirrors iOS 26 developer beta 5, released earlier this week.

Prominent among the changes is a new “Classic Mode” toggle within the Camera app. This feature reverts the scrolling direction when switching between camera modes, addressing user concerns regarding the redesigned interface. A subtle animation has been added to the lock screen, causing numerical bubbles to briefly animate upon swiping up. Users employing Face ID authentication will encounter this change less frequently.

Control Center now provides a visual indicator—a padlock icon—to denote password-protected Wi-Fi networks when users long-press the Wi-Fi connection icon. Additional alterations include an expanded Liquid Glass bar on the Home Screen dock, a revised label (“Preauthorized Payments”) for transactions made through Apple Card, and enhanced predictive capabilities for Siri that anticipate travel plans to suggest options for international cellular connectivity. Finally, iPhones utilizing the Dynamic Island will now display a full-width low battery warning when the device reaches 20% charge.