iOS 26.2 Beta 3 Released: What's New for iPhone Users

iOS 26.2 Beta 3 Arrives: A Closer Look

Apple continues its march towards the public release of iOS 26.2 with the arrival of Beta 3 for developers. This latest iteration, build number 23C5044b, signals that the final release candidate is rapidly approaching – potentially just weeks away. Alongside this iOS update, Apple also released Beta 3 versions for iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, macOS Tahoe and Sonoma, as well as a Release Candidate for macOS Sequoia.

What's New in iOS 26.2 Beta 3?

The primary focus of this beta build appears to be enhanced stability, reflecting its proximity to the public release. However, there are still several worthwhile changes for developers and beta testers to explore:

Key Updates & Features

• AirDrop Contact Management: Users now have the option to manage their AirDrop contacts directly within Settings, providing greater control over who can receive files from you.

• Modem Update: Select iPhone models benefit from a modem update, potentially improving connectivity and performance.

• Refined Animations: Apple has further polished the system’s animations, creating a more fluid and visually appealing user experience – often referred to as liquid glass animations.

• Minor Bug Fixes and Improvements: Numerous minor bug fixes and under-the-hood improvements contribute to overall stability and performance.

Checking for the Update

If you're enrolled in the Apple Beta Software Program and have an eligible iPhone, you can easily check for the update. Simply navigate to Settings > General > Software Update on your device.

Important Reminder: Back Up Your Data!

Before installing any beta update, it's always recommended to back up your iPhone’s data. This safeguards against potential issues during the update process and provides a fallback option if necessary.