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Apple has rolled out iOS 26.1 Beta 2 for developers and beta testers. The latest update introduces minor yet meaningful upgrades to enhance users' daily experiences and security. The beta version arrives two weeks after the first version, giving users an early look at Apple’s next software enhancements.
The update features a new Background Security Improvements toggle, redesigned interface elements, and expanded workout options in the Fitness app.
Beta 2 is expected to bring further user experience and maintain stability. The build number of the release is 23B5059e. Although Apple hasn't disclosed anything, some users with access to the new version have noted several interface changes across core apps, including Clock, Photos, and Settings. The update is now available to download over the air (OTA) for Apple developers through a beta software program.
The new Background Security Improvements option is one of the key highlights in the iOS 26.1 Beta 2 update. This new update is found in the Privacy and Security section. This toggle will help replace the older Rapid Security Responses feature and allow users to download and install security patches in the background.
The upgraded feature helps protect iPhones without causing any disturbance in usage and makes them secure by allowing smoother performance.
The new Apple fitness app stands out among many to give a fresh perspective on the fitness world from Apple's side. The app doesn't preach the benefits of exercise to health enthusiasts and players. Instead, it takes them straight to the workout field.
The software is personalized to the extent that it plans and adapts to the individual. The user will only set the exercise type, duration, intensity, and Active Calories goals.
Visual and usability changes also stand out in this Apple iOS update. The Clock application now requires a swipe gesture to stop alarms, thereby minimizing the risk of inadvertent skipping due to tapping. The layout orientation has been recalibrated to the left for the Settings and Home Screen setups, making the texts readable and the settings and icons more visible.
On the other hand, the Photos app has moved features of interest like 'favorite' and 'slideshow' to the top to speed up their access. The user interface has undergone several fine-tuning touches apart from the significant changes mentioned above, such as new wallpaper crop gestures and a new display border option.
iOS 26.1 Beta 2's primary focus is to improve the iPhone experience by using smarter design elements and silent security upgrades. While the enhancements are not comprehensive, the minor interface adjustments, more personalized settings, and enhanced security controls indicate that Apple is focusing more on user convenience and privacy protection. As the official release date nears, users will have a much more user-friendly, secure, and intuitive system on all iPhones, starting with the iPhone 11 and newer models.
