Apple has launched the second developer beta of iOS 26, just two weeks after the initial unveiling at WWDC 2025. This new beta, build number 23A5276f, follows the first test version (23A5260u) and focuses on refining the user experience and resolving bugs. Significant visual adjustments have been made to the Control Center and Messages app, alongside backend improvements for system stability. The Control Center now features a darker appearance with a stronger blur effect, while the ‘Glass’ wallpaper and model-specific iPhone wallpapers have been updated. Messages introduces blue badges for alerts from unknown senders. A new ringtone variant, ‘Alt 1,’ has been added, accessible under Settings. The update also introduces a live radio widget for Apple Music and streamlines the Safari ‘More’ button. A key feature is the new Recovery Assistant, designed to guide users through troubleshooting steps and even allow device restoration via another iOS or iPadOS device. Bug fixes address UI glitches in Apple TV, Messages, Mail, and Photos, including issues with AutoMix transitions in Spatial Audio and crashes in the Photos app. While this beta offers several new additions, including expanded developer-facing features in the Foundation Models framework and App Store ‘Accessibility Nutrition Labels,’ numerous known issues persist across CarPlay, ARKit, HealthKit, and UIKit. More betas are expected before the public release later this year.
