Here are new iOS 26.2 features coming to your iPhone
What's the story
Apple has released the beta version of its latest software update, iOS 26.2. The new update brings a host of enhancements and features for iPhone users. Among the major changes are upgrades to Apple Podcasts, improvements to Reminders, and more. The tech giant has already seeded two betas for developers and public beta testers with plans for a mid-December public release.
App upgrade
Reminders app gets 'Urgent' feature
The Reminders app in iOS 26.2 now comes with an "Urgent" option. This new feature sets an alarm on your iPhone for when the task is due, ensuring that no important task is forgotten. The update also allows users to set alarms and timers for reminders, further enhancing the functionality of the app.
App enhancements
Apple Music and Podcasts get new features
The iOS 26.2 update also brings improvements to Apple Music and Podcasts. The former now supports offline lyrics access, including translations and beat-by-beat syncing, even without Wi-Fi or cellular data. Meanwhile, Apple Podcasts will automatically generate chapters for podcast episodes using artificial intelligence. A new Podcast Mentions feature has also been added, allowing users to follow mentioned podcasts directly from the player and transcript.
App updates
Sleep Score and News app get updates
The iOS 26.2 update also brings refinements to the Apple Watch's Sleep Score, making it more stringent. The classification levels have been updated to provide a more accurate assessment of sleep quality. The Apple News app has also been redesigned for easier navigation with dedicated buttons for Sports, Puzzles, Politics, and Food sections on the "Today" view.
Feature expansion
iOS 26.2 expands live translation with AirPods
The iOS 26.2 update also expands the Live Translation feature with AirPods to EU users for the first time. However, it should be noted that Apple is removing Wi-Fi network syncing from the iPhone and Apple Watch due to interoperability requirements under the Digital Markets Act. This means saved Wi-Fi networks from your iPhone will no longer automatically sync to your Apple Watch in the EU region.
Feature enhancements
Liquid Glass customization and CarPlay updates
The iOS 26.2 update also brings more customization options for Liquid Glass, including a new slider on the Lock Screen to adjust clock transparency. Apple has also updated the 'Level' tool in the Measure app with a fun Liquid Glass design. For CarPlay users, the update allows disabling Pinned Conversations in the Messages app and possibly expanding widget stacks for some cars.