Just one day after releasing iOS 26.1, Apple has already begun testing the next major update: iOS 26.2. The update introduces several new features and refinements, including AirPods Live Translation support in the EU, enhancements to Reminders, a customizable Liquid Glass effect for the Lock Screen clock, and much more.
Here’s a closer look at everything new in iOS 26.2 so far.
Lock Screen Updates
Apple has added a new Liquid Glass slider for the Lock Screen clock. Users can now adjust how transparent or frosted the clock appears when using the “Glass” style.
There is also still a separate “Solid” toggle that completely disables the Liquid Glass effect for a more opaque appearance. Existing clock color customization options remain available as well.
Sleep Score Improvements
With iOS 26.2 and watchOS 26.2, Apple has refined the Sleep Score system introduced earlier this year to better reflect how users may actually feel after sleeping.
Updated score ranges include:
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Very Low: 0–40 (previously 0–29)
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Low: 41–60 (previously 30–49)
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OK: 61–80 (previously 50–69)
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High: 81–95 (previously 70–89)
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Very High: 96–100 (previously labeled “Excellent”)
Sleep Score is available on all Apple Watch models compatible with watchOS 26.2 and can be viewed in the Health app on iPhone. Scores are calculated using sleep duration, bedtime consistency, and nighttime interruptions.
Passwords App Changes
The Passwords app now includes a new Settings option that allows users to manage websites where passwords should not be saved during sign-in.
AirPods Live Translation Expands to the EU
iOS 26.2 officially brings AirPods Live Translation to users in the European Union after Apple completed the necessary compliance work for the Digital Markets Act.
The feature supports:
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AirPods Pro 3
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AirPods Pro 2
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AirPods 4 with ANC
Supported languages currently include English, French, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional Mandarin), Japanese, and Korean.
Freeform Adds Tables
The Freeform app now supports tables, making it easier to organize information visually within collaborative boards.
Reminders Gets Alarm Support
The Reminders app now allows users to set alarm-style alerts for reminders by enabling a new “Urgent” option during setup.
When triggered, reminder alarms include:
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Snooze controls
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Slide-to-stop functionality
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Lock Screen countdowns
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Quick options to complete or reschedule reminders
Apple also distinguishes reminder alarms visually with a new blue interface color.
Podcasts Enhancements
The Podcasts app gains several new features:
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Automatically generated episode chapters
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Mentions of other podcasts directly in transcripts and playback
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Quick access to links mentioned during episodes
New AirDrop Capability
Although not yet active, iOS 26.2 contains references to a new AirDrop feature that would allow users to exchange a PIN code to keep AirDrop enabled between two people for up to 30 days.
Currently, AirDrop access for non-contacts expires after 10 minutes, so this would significantly extend that window.
Weather App Improvements
Code within iOS 26.2 suggests the Weather app may soon support relative time descriptions for forecasts and alerts, such as “next Friday” or “next Tuesday.”
Apple News Redesign
Apple News has received a refreshed interface with quick-access category buttons for:
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Sports
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Puzzles
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Politics
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Business
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Food
Apple also added a dedicated “Following” tab that is now separated from the search interface.
Flash for Alerts Enhancements
The Accessibility settings now allow the iPhone display itself to flash for alerts, in addition to the rear LED flash.
Users can choose:
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Screen flash only
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LED flash only
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Both simultaneously
Enhanced Safety Alerts
A new “Enhanced Safety Alerts” section has been added under Notifications settings. It includes controls for:
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Earthquake alerts
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Imminent threat alerts
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Improved alert delivery using location-based reliability enhancements
Availability
iOS 26.2 is currently available to developers, with a public beta expected later this week through Apple’s beta testing program.
Compatibility
The update supports all iPhone models capable of running iOS 26.
Expected Release Date
Apple is expected to officially release iOS 26.2 sometime in December, likely between December 9 and December 16.