Apple has released the iOS 26.1 developer beta 2 update, introducing several minor updates and subtle design changes for developers to explore. While the update does not bring any major new features, it focuses on refining existing tools and improving user experience across the system.
The minor updates include visual tweaks and small functional enhancements in apps like Phone, Photos, and Music. According to 9to5Mac, the Phone app now features a new Liquid Glass-style number pad, offering a more modern look. The Photos app has received a fresh background for the video scrubber, while the Music app allows users to switch between songs by swiping left or right on the Now Playing bar.
Although these are minor updates, they reflect Apple’s continued commitment to improving design consistency and user interface smoothness across iOS.
The latest beta version of iOS 26.1 is currently available for developers. However, Apple allows anyone to join its free developer tier to access beta builds. Users can register their devices on Apple’s developer website, back up their data, and install the beta via Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates.
In addition to design changes, the update expands language support for Apple Intelligence. New languages such as Chinese, Danish, Norwegian, and Vietnamese are now compatible with Apple’s AI features. AirPods also gain live translation capabilities for five more languages, including Mandarin (Simplified and Traditional), Japanese, Korean, and Italian.
While iOS 26.1 does not deliver headline-grabbing features, these minor updates play an important role in refining performance, usability, and accessibility. Apple is expected to continue rolling out similar refinements ahead of the official release later this year.
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