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Two weeks after the first beta, Apple has seeded iOS 26.1 Beta 2 to developers and testers. This new update might just be a small one, but it’s got some seriously useful changes: stronger security features, custom workouts within the Fitness app and some subtle design tweaks which should make things easier for all users.

What’s New in iOS 26.1 Beta 2

Background Security Improvements

And the most important change that comes with this build is the new Background Security Improvements toggle in Settings → Privacy and Security. Users can now turn on automatic download and install of security updates. It replaces the old rapid security responses and is something that will make the iPhone safer without you having to do anything yourself.

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Custom Workouts in Fitness App

iOS 26.1 Beta 2 Adds Custom Workouts to Fitness App. There’s the ability for users to select the workout type, estimated Active Calories, duration, percent effort level and when it should kick off on Apple Watch -- providing an even more customizable experience to get the most out of workouts.

Alarm and UI Changes

Apple has made some neat tweaks to the new alarm interface. Users slide instead of tap to stop the alarm now, while tapping will snooze the alarm. Also icons and text alignment for Settings & Homescreen folders have moved slightly to the left resulting in a cleaner look.

Photos and Accessibility Updates

In the Photos app, quick access to familiar tools including Favourite, Play as Slideshow and Hide are now located at the top of the menu. Smaller touches are more subtle light refraction effects over darker backgrounds, a pinch to crop during wallpaper set up, and there's now a Display Borders toggle in accessibility menu.

Availability and Installation

iOS 26.1 Beta 2 (buildnumber 23B5059e) release notes Registered developers and beta testers can install it as an over-the-air update on iPhone 11 and later for free. A public beta is available for users who belong to Apple’s beta software program. To download the update, navigate to Settings → General → Software Update → Install Now.

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Conclusion

iOS 26.1 Beta 2 — is full of quality-of-life updates including improved security, fitness that’s more fit for you, easier to use interface changes and customizations. Though these might be minor enhancements, they will improve your every day iPhone experience and simultaneously set the stage for upcoming updates in iOS 26.