Apple has rolled out iOS 26.2 beta 3 for testers. The OS update introduces fresh UI tweaks, smarter system features, enhanced performance, and hints at upcoming device integrations. The modification continues Apple’s rapid iteration cycle as it prepares for the next major iOS milestone.
Apple released iOS 26.2 developer beta 3 in less than a week after the arrival of the second developer beta. The iOS software update has the build number 23C5044b, replacing 23C5033g.
iOS's new features are now available as an over-the-air download for registered developers. It includes health tracking, user interface elements, media apps, and system tools before public rollout in December. Testers are already experiencing performance boosts, interface refinements, and early versions of new intelligent features.
Sleep Score: The recalibration of the Sleep Score feature is one of the notable changes in this update. As part of the update, The highest rating was renamed from “Excellent” to “Very High,” in the new update.
The change indicates that the tech giant is aiming for improved accuracy and reliability in its health metrics.
AI Features: The company has also expanded its AI capabilities in Apple Podcasts. The app can now automatically generate chapters for supported episodes, include direct links to podcasts mentioned in a show, and organise related content to help listeners navigate and discover material more efficiently.
The Apple News app will also feature a new layout with improved navigation and faster access to popular sections.
AirPods Live Translation: This system-level enhancement is now available in additional countries within the European Union, expanding the feature’s geographic reach.
Lock Screen Slider: This new feature gives users more precise control over clock translucency across fonts.
New Features on Productivity Apps: The Reminders app now allows alarms and timers to override Focus modes. This ensures that time-sensitive alerts are visible. CarPlay users can disable pinned conversations in the Messages app. It helps users in a cleaner interface while driving.
The level tool in the Measure app has also been redesigned with a modern Liquid Glass appearance.
AirDrop Feature: According to the company’s feature description, "Share a secure code with people not in your contacts to use AirDrop. You will be able to find each other for the next 30 days. You can manage access in Settings. You will automatically appear for 30 days to people you have shared a one-time code with."
Earlier, users could only allow AirDrop with everyone for 10 minutes, disable the feature entirely, or make AirDrop usable only with contacts. Now, one-time codes will help users share files via AirDrop without adding someone to their contacts for 30 days.
The AirDrop feature was introduced in 2011 with macOS 10.7 Lion and made its way to the iPhone and iPad two years later, with the arrival of iOS 7.
The feature lets users transfer files between compatible iOS devices and Macs via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Also Read: Apple Rolls Out iOS 26.1 Beta 3: Key Features and Update Guide
This update signals Apple’s ongoing push toward enhanced customization, improved stability, and AI-driven capabilities across the system. The iOS 26.2 update is expected to be released in the third week of December.
However, the exact release date has not been confirmed. It remains to be seen how these upgrades will influence the operating software development and Apple’s tech innovations.