CUPERTINO, CA — Apple has released the second public beta for iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, offering early access to those interested in testing the company’s most extensive software update since iOS 7.

Available for download through the Apple Beta Software Program, these updates bring a refreshed Liquid Glass look, new Apple Intelligence tools, and several usability improvements. The rollout has sparked conversation, both positive and critical, about Apple’s latest changes. Here’s a look at the major updates and the community’s first impressions.

What’s New in iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 Public Beta 2?

This second public beta, which lines up with the fifth developer beta, builds on the initial release from July. The standout is the updated Liquid Glass design, which brings see-through, glass-like visuals to the iPhone and iPad.

This style uses light effects to create a more lifelike appearance while users scroll through apps. Icons, menus, and tab bars now feature softer, rounded edges, taking cues from visionOS for a more unified Apple look. In this beta, Apple has increased the opacity in some interface areas, like tab bars, to help with readability while keeping the glass effect.

Key additions in iOS 26 public beta 2 include:

Camera Tweaks: A new swipe gesture lets users switch between photo and video modes more easily. The new Lens Cleaning Hints prompt users to wipe their camera lens for clearer pics.
Mail Improvements: The “Select” button is back, making it easier to manage emails in bulk.
AirDrop Update: AirDrop now features a redesigned icon, giving the sharing interface a clean, updated feel.
Apple Intelligence Features: Available on select models (iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, and iPhone 16), Visual Intelligence lets users find content on screen across apps, and Live Translation supports real-time language translation in Messages, Phone, and FaceTime. Genmoji allows users to create custom emoji combinations. Image Playground uses AI to create images on demand.
Battery Management: The new Adaptive Power Mode is less strict than Low Power Mode, gently lowering screen brightness and performance to save battery life. Settings now show daily battery use with orange for high drain and blue for normal usage.

On iPad, iPadOS 26 public beta 2 moves the device closer to a Mac-style experience. The new windowing system replaces Slide Over and Split View, allowing users to resize app windows and keep the dock visible, similar to what’s found in macOS. New additions include Journal, Games, and Preview apps (the latter coming over from macOS), as well as a redesigned Files app that works more like Finder. Some iPad fans have missed Slide Over, which allowed for quick multitasking, and voiced their concerns about its removal.

Both iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 need an A13 Bionic chip or newer, which covers the iPhone 11 or later and iPad 8th generation and up. The Apple Intelligence tools require an A17 Pro chip or newer.

Users interested in trying out the beta can register at beta.apple.com, then in Settings go to General, Software Update, and Beta Updates to select iOS 26 or iPadOS 26 Public Beta. Apple strongly recommends making a backup and warns that the beta may not be stable enough for everyday use on a main device.

Apple Community and Reviewer Feedback

Early reactions to iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 public beta 2 are mixed. Many reviewers praise the Liquid Glass look for its bold visuals, but feedback is divided. Some find certain interface elements harder to see and hope for more ways to control transparency. Apple’s decision to boost opacity in this beta has eased some complaints, though a few fans feel it lessens the design’s unique charm.

Apple Intelligence features like Live Translation and Visual Intelligence are getting noticed for their practical uses. Being able to translate conversations in FaceTime in real time stands out, especially for people who talk with friends or colleagues in other languages.

Still, many users with older devices are frustrated that these tools only work on the newest iPhones, calling the move unfair.

Productivity changes in iPadOS 26 are a hit with power users, especially the new windowing system and added Mac-style apps. Outlets like 9to5Mac say these updates mark a big shift for the iPad. However, longtime users who relied on Slide Over for quick multitasking aren’t happy about its removal, seeing it as a setback for their workflow.

On performance, beta 2 feels more stable than earlier versions, but some bugs remain. Users on X have reported battery drain and app crashes, and some joke that their phones feel warmer than usual. Apple is working to fix these problems before the expected launch in September, which will likely come with the iPhone 17 line.

With iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 still in development, public beta 2 gives a preview of what’s ahead. The Liquid Glass theme and smarter tools show Apple’s push for fresh ideas, even as some users call for a better balance between style and use.

The final release, planned for mid-September, will reflect feedback from testers as Apple works to fine-tune the updates.

For those ready to test out the new features, the public beta is free and open to all. It’s smart to back up your device first and expect a few hiccups along the way. As one user on X put it, “iOS 26 has a new feel, but it’s still a work in progress. Try it if you’re ready for some surprises.”