Apple releases iOS 26.2 with new features, app enhancements, and system refinements

The latest iOS 26.2 update brings improvements to Apple Music, Podcasts, and gaming, along with Lock Screen customisation, stronger AirDrop security, smarter reminders, and broader accessibility updates for supported iPhone models.

Apple has released iOS 26.2 for supported iPhone models, delivering a wide range of new features, usability enhancements, and system refinements. The update focuses on improving everyday experiences across music, podcasts, gaming, and productivity, while also introducing subtle design controls and added security measures.

Available through the Software Update section in Settings, iOS 26.2 continues Apple’s push to refine core iPhone experiences without major visual overhauls, instead prioritising practical upgrades and reliability.

App updates across music, podcasts, and gaming

Apple Music receives several notable improvements with iOS 26.2. Users can now view lyrics for downloaded songs even when offline, making it easier to follow along without an internet connection. Apple has also made the Favourite Songs playlist more visible by placing it under Top Picks on the Home tab.

The Podcasts app has been enhanced to improve navigation and discovery. Episodes now feature auto-generated chapter markers, allowing users to jump to specific segments more easily. Tapping on show mentions within transcripts can also direct listeners to related podcasts, streamlining content exploration.

For gamers, the Games app introduces new library filters to sort titles by category and file size. Live challenge score banners now provide real-time updates during competitive play, while improved support for Backbone and Razer controllers enhances external hardware compatibility.

System-level features and accessibility enhancements

At the system level, iOS 26.2 introduces an additional Lock Screen clock customisation option, allowing users to adjust the opacity of the Liquid Glass design for improved readability. AirDrop has also gained a new security layer, requiring one-time codes when sharing files with unknown contacts.

Reminders now supports alarms with snooze functionality and Live Activity integration, making it easier to track urgent tasks. Apple News adds quick-access section shortcuts at the top of the Today feed, while the Home app simplifies setup by allowing multiple accessories to be paired using a single code.

Accessibility improvements include a new Flash for Alerts option that enables the entire screen to flash for notifications. Freeform also gains support for tables that can hold text, images, and documents with automatic resizing.

Eligible devices and update availability

iOS 26.2 is available for iPhone 11 and newer models, including all recent flagship and SE devices from the second generation onward. Users can install the update by navigating to Settings, selecting General, and tapping Software Update.