Your iPhone’s interface got its biggest visual makeover since iOS 7 ditched skeuomorphism in 2013. Apple’s iOS 26 Beta 2, released to developers this week, introduces the “Liquid Glass” design language—think of it as Apple’s answer to everyone saying iOS looked too flat and sterile compared to Android’s Material You vibes.
The most noticeable change hits you in Control Center, where Apple fixed the transparency issues that made Beta 1 look like someone smeared Vaseline on your screen. Now, those glass-like elements enhance readability instead of fighting it. Your toggles and controls finally have that premium feel Apple intended, making every swipe feel more intentional and polished.
Apple’s also solving actual problems you didn’t know you had. The Phone app now lets you scroll through contacts, recent calls, and voicemail in one unified view—no more app-switching gymnastics when you’re trying to remember if someone called or texted. Even better, there’s a new feature that holds your spot when you’re stuck in customer service purgatory. Yes, your iPhone can now wait on hold for you while you do anything else.
Messages get smarter spam filtering because scammers have gotten creative enough to bypass Apple’s previous attempts. The Wallet app now tracks your orders with full Siri integration, so you can ask about your Amazon delivery without opening seventeen different apps like some digital archaeologist.
Safari quietly fixed its biggest Beta 1 mistake by moving the new tab button back to the bottom left corner, proving Apple listens when developers collectively lose their minds on Twitter. There’s also a dedicated Apple Games app that consolidates all your installed games—Apple’s version of a gaming launcher, but with that characteristic Apple restraint.
The accessibility improvements address concerns raised after Beta 1’s transparency experiments left some users squinting at their screens. Apple’s giving you granular control over interface elements because inclusive design shouldn’t be an afterthought.
iOS 26 Beta 2 signals Apple’s shift toward refinement over revolution. While competitors chase AI headlines, Apple’s focusing on making your daily iPhone interactions smoother and more intuitive—the kind of improvements you’ll appreciate every time you unlock your phone this fall.
