Apple is continuing to refine its upcoming iOS 26.2 update, with beta 3 introducing several notable features and improvements. The latest build brings new AirDrop capabilities, deeper health integrations, and region-specific changes, all while polishing the overall user experience.
AirDrop Gets a Major Upgrade
The most talked-about addition in iOS 26.2 beta 3 is the new AirDrop code system. Users can now generate a one-time code to share files with people who aren’t in their contacts. Once shared, both devices remain visible to each other for 30 days, making file sharing easier for temporary connections. The Settings app now includes a “Manage Known AirDrop Contacts” section, allowing users to review and revoke access as needed. While the feature is visible in beta, the ability to generate codes is not yet active, but its presence signals Apple’s intent to roll it out soon.
Health Features Expand for Third-Party Apps
Apple is opening up its health ecosystem further with a new API that lets third-party apps read Hypertension Notifications from the Apple Watch. This means compatible health apps can now access high blood pressure alerts directly, enabling more personalized monitoring and actionable insights for users.
Region-Specific Side Button Changes
Responding to regulatory demands in Japan, Apple is preparing to let users choose a different voice assistant for the Side Button’s press-and-hold gesture. Instead of Siri, users in Japan may soon be able to select alternatives like Gemini or Alexa. This change is expected to remain limited to Japanese Apple accounts and will be available starting with iOS 26.2.
Liquid Glass and Accessibility Tweaks
Apple is making the Liquid Glass interface more user-friendly. When using the “Tinted” mode, users can no longer enable conflicting accessibility settings like Reduce Transparency or Increase Contrast, streamlining the experience. The Measure app also receives a Liquid Glass-styled Level, with clearer numerals for better visibility.
Games App and Reminders Enhancements
The Games app is evolving with new sorting and filtering tools for the library, improved controller navigation, and real-time score updates during gameplay. Reminders now lets users mark tasks as “urgent,” triggering louder alarms that can break through Focus modes, ensuring important notifications aren’t missed.
iPadOS Multitasking Makes a Comeback
iPadOS 26.2 beta 3 restores the ability to drag apps from the Dock, Spotlight, or App Library directly into Split View or Slide Over. This multitasking feature was removed in the transition from iPadOS 18 to iPadOS 26 but is now returning, offering greater flexibility for iPad users.
Other Notable Changes
- Sleep Score categories have been adjusted, with the highest label now “Very High” instead of “Excellent.”
- Apple Podcasts uses AI to generate chapters and organize related content.
- Apple News offers quicker access to major sections.
- AirPods Live Translation will expand to EU countries with the public release.
The Lock Screen features a more dramatic Liquid Glass slider for adjusting clock transparency.
