Apple has unveiled the inaugural beta version of iOS 26.2, incorporating an array of enhancements to its core applications, including Reminders, Music, Podcasts, and News.
Additionally, this update refines features pertinent to Apple Watch, improves functionalities tailored for the European Union, and expands on the customization options first seen in iOS 26.1. Below, we delineate the upcoming changes.
Enhanced Reminders and Offline Lyrics in Apple Music
A significant addition to the Reminders app is the “Urgent” status option. Activating this feature initiates an alert at the task’s due time, thereby enhancing the user’s ability to meet critical deadlines.
Furthermore, Apple Music presents a noteworthy upgrade, enabling offline access to song lyrics. Users are now able to view synchronized, translated, and beat-matched lyrics without requiring Wi-Fi or cellular data.
This functionality spans the entirety of their music libraries, transforming lengthy flights or areas with unreliable connectivity into a more enjoyable experience.
Transformations in Apple Podcasts
This update introduces AI-generated chapters within Podcasts, effectively segmenting episodes automatically when creators neglect to provide their own. Additionally, the new Podcast Mentions feature allows listeners to effortlessly explore referenced shows directly from the player or transcript.
Stricter Sleep Score Evaluation
In conjunction with watchOS 26.2, the Sleep Score metrics are undergoing recalibration. Users previously felt that scoring was overly lenient. Apple has responded by tightening the grading scale; thus, a similar quality of sleep may now yield a diminished score.
Notably, the “Very High” category now necessitates a score range of 96 to 100 points.
Revamped Apple News Experience
To facilitate easier navigation, Apple News introduces dedicated quick-access buttons for categories such as Sports, Puzzles, Politics, and Food.
A new Following tab aggregates favorites, archived stories, and reading histories, while the Search tab has been streamlined to enhance content discovery.
European Union-Centric Updates
EU users will benefit from the introduction of Live Translation via AirPods, a feature previously delayed due to DMA regulations. However, it is imperative to note that iOS 26.2 also eliminates Wi-Fi syncing capabilities between iPhones and Apple Watches due to interoperability mandates, necessitating manual entry of network credentials on both devices.
Expanded Customization and New Alert Settings
The Liquid Glass feature now provides a Lock Screen slider that adjusts clock transparency, surpassing earlier Clear or Tinted modes.
Additionally, an Enhanced Safety Alerts menu has been included, offering options for earthquake warnings, threat alerts, and optional location sharing to bolster accuracy.
Among other minor updates, new table support in Freeform, refined exclusions for websites within the Passwords app, and a “Flash to Alerts” accessibility feature have been introduced.
iOS 26.2 is currently in beta and is anticipated for a wider rollout in mid-December.
Source link: Hindustantimes.com.
