Apple released iOS 26 public beta 2 on August 7, 2025, bringing refinements to the new Liquid Glass design and Apple Intelligence features; the update is available to eligible iPhones in India via the Apple Beta Software Program.

• iOS 26 public beta 2 rolled out on August 7, 2025; Apple followed with public beta 3 on August 14.
• Enroll at Apple’s Beta Software Program, then update from Settings → General → Software Update → Beta Updates.
• Key changes in iOS 26 remain the new Liquid Glass interface, Live Translation, and upgraded Phone and Messages tools.
• Supported iPhones include iPhone 11 and newer and iPhone SE (2nd gen and later).
• Beta software is pre-release. Back up first and avoid installing on a primary work device.

Quick specs table

India price and availability

There is no price for iOS updates. iOS 26 public beta 2 became available to public beta testers in India on August 7, 2025. If you are already enrolled in the Apple Beta Software Program, the update appears in Settings under Software Update. Apple also released public beta 3 on August 14, 2025; if you are joining today, you will likely see the newer build first.

What is new

iOS 26 introduces Apple’s most visible interface refresh in years with Liquid Glass, a more translucent and responsive UI that carries across the Lock Screen, Home Screen, Control Center and system apps. Apple Intelligence is integrated more broadly, enabling on-device features such as Live Translation across Messages, FaceTime and Phone, context-aware visual intelligence that understands what’s on screen, and intelligent actions in Shortcuts.

The second public beta does not include a formal change log from Apple. Media coverage and developer notes indicate it largely matches the fifth developer beta with UI refinements and polish. The headline capabilities of iOS 26 remain the design overhaul, communication upgrades, and intelligence features slated for the final release.

Performance and hardware

On supported iPhones, iOS 26 focuses on consistency and responsiveness within the new design. The update does not change your device’s hardware capabilities; performance may vary during beta cycles. Expect iterative stability and animation improvements from one beta to the next. If you rely on performance-sensitive apps for work, test on a secondary device.

Software and updates

iOS 26 is scheduled for a stable release later this year. Public beta builds arrive periodically as Apple validates fixes and feedback. If you join the beta, you will receive over-the-air updates to newer public beta versions as they ship. You can leave the beta at any time by switching Beta Updates to Off in Settings; returning to the current public release may require a restore.

Connectivity and extras

Core connectivity features continue to work during the beta, including cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and UPI/payments apps. As with any pre-release software, compatibility issues can appear. Back up your iPhone before updating, and verify critical apps such as banking, corporate email, and two-factor authentication after installation.

Competition context

Google’s Android beta program continues in parallel for Android 15 across eligible Pixel devices. Both platforms use staged public betas to validate releases ahead of stable rollouts. For users comparing ecosystems, the takeaway is similar: public betas deliver early access at the cost of potential instability.

Who should consider this

• App developers and QA teams validating their apps against iOS 26 APIs and design changes.
• Technically inclined early adopters who are comfortable troubleshooting occasional glitches.
• Reviewers and IT admins evaluating impact on workflows before the stable rollout.

If you must rely on your iPhone for mission-critical tasks, wait for the final release.

How to download in India

1. Back up your iPhone with iCloud or via Finder on a Mac.
2. On any browser, sign in with your Apple ID at the Apple Beta Software Program website.
3. On your iPhone, go to Settings → General → Software Update → Beta Updates.
4. Choose iOS 26 Public Beta.
5. Return to Software Update and tap Download and Install. Keep your phone on Wi-Fi and power.

Known limitations

• Apple has not published a detailed change log for public beta 2.
• Some features of Apple Intelligence require specific hardware and language settings.
• Battery life, app compatibility, and accessory behavior can vary across beta builds.

disclosure

Muzamil Ahad, Senior Tech Journalist, Mobile and Software Updates, Doordasher Help Central.
How information was gathered: This article is based on Apple’s official materials (Newsroom announcement, iOS 26 product page, Apple Beta Software Program documentation, and Developer Releases) and corroborated with reputable outlets that track Apple beta timelines. Hands-on claims are avoided where not confirmed.
Why this is helpful: It gives India-based readers a concise status update on iOS 26 public beta 2, clear download steps, device eligibility, and realistic caveats to decide whether to install.

FAQ

When did iOS 26 public beta 2 release?
August 7, 2025.

Is a newer public beta available now?
Yes. Public beta 3 released on August 14, 2025.

Which iPhones support iOS 26?
iPhone 11 and newer, plus iPhone SE (2nd generation and later).

How do I get the update in India?
Enroll in Apple’s Beta Software Program, then install from Settings → General → Software Update → Beta Updates.

What changed in public beta 2?
Apple did not publish a change log. Public beta 2 aligns with developer beta 5 and focuses on refinements.

Will UPI and banking apps work?
They typically work, but beta software can cause issues. Back up first and test your critical apps.

Can I leave the beta later?
Yes. Turn Beta Updates Off in Settings. Returning to a stable public release may require a restore.

When is the stable iOS 26 release expected?
Apple targets a fall release alongside new iPhones.