Step-by-Step: How to Get iOS 26.2 Beta 2 Before Everyone Else
Step-by-step guide to install iOS 26.2 beta 2 safely on iPhone. Explore AirDrop for strangers, Measure app updates, and Side Button options.
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Apple, after the release of the third developer beta earlier this week, made the second public beta of iOS 16.2 accessible for eligible iPhone models. Besides the new AirDrop feature, the update also includes several system apps updates.
The new AirDrop option, which encourages sharing of files with people not saved in the recipient's contacts, is the most talked-about feature. Users can create a one-time AirDrop code to exchange with others who are not in their contact list. The sharing of the code allows the users to transfer files for up to 30 days. Users can control and remove connections by going to Settings > General > AirDrop > Manage Known AirDrop Contacts.
A noticeable change is the revamped Liquid Glass–style Level in the Measure app. Although it was introduced in the previous beta, the interface element has been improved in terms of visibility. Apple has made the text clearer so that it can be read even from certain angles where it was previously not fully visible.
The beta suggests a possible increase in functionality for the iPhone’s Side Button, especially for users in Japan. At present, pressing and holding the Side Button brings up Siri. But with iOS 26.2, users might not only be able to make use of Google Gemini or Amazon Alexa but also assign them to this gesture. The updates in the beta imply that the feature is set to be rolled out along with the global release of the update.
Eligible Devices for iOS 26.2 Public Beta 2:
iPhone 17 series: iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air
iPhone 16 series: iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, 16e
iPhone 15 series: iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
iPhone 14 series: iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
iPhone 13 series: iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12 series: iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11 series: iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
iPhone SE (2nd generation and above)
How can one install the Public Beta 2 of iOS 26.2?
- First of all, join the public beta program of Apple through beta.apple.com.
- Now go to your iPhone and then to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Next, tap on Beta Updates and choose iOS 26.2 Public Beta.
- After that, you can come back to the Software Update screen and just be patient until the update shows up.
- Lastly, click on Apple's legal conditions and the downloading process will begin. The installation will be done automatically once the download is finished.
