Apple distributed iOS 26.1 beta 2 to its developer community, introducing several functional updates, user interface adjustments, and reversals from the previous beta. The release occurred two weeks after the initial beta version was made available for testing.
A notable change affects the Clock app, where alarms and timers are now more difficult to dismiss. The standard “Stop” button has been replaced with a “Slide to stop” gesture. This modification follows an update in iOS 26 that introduced a new design with larger on-screen buttons. The implementation of a sliding gesture requires a more deliberate action from the user, which is intended to reduce the frequency of accidental alarm or timer dismissals.
For iPad users, iPadOS 26.1 beta 2 re-introduces the Slide Over multitasking feature. Apple had previously removed both Slide Over and Split View as part of a significant multitasking overhaul in iPadOS 26, which centered on a new windowing system. While the functionality of Split View could be generally replicated within the new system, a direct equivalent for Slide Over was absent. The restored feature allows a single application to float above the primary workspace, where it can be quickly viewed or dismissed. This version of Slide Over supports one app at a time, unlike the previous iteration which managed a stack of apps.
The second beta also adds new controls for users connecting an external microphone to their device. Input gain for the microphone can now be adjusted directly from the input panel within the Control Center. An additional customization option allows users to specify the save location for audio recordings that are captured locally on the device, providing more control over file management.
Further refinements are present in the user interface. Within app folders, the titles are now left-aligned. A similar alignment change has been applied to headers inside the Settings application. The app for Apple Vision Pro has been updated to display a 3D model of the device, replacing the previous representation. This change provides a more detailed visual a of the hardware within the software.
Apple also reverted two changes that had been introduced in the first beta of iOS 26.1. These reversals restore specific elements to their appearance and behavior from the public iOS 26 release.
- Calendar events: The design for calendar events no longer uses full-width colors and has returned to the original iOS 26 styling.
- Safari downloads: In iPadOS, the Downloads menu for the Safari browser is once again integrated into the address bar, reversing its relocation from the first beta.
