Apple has released iOS 26.2 on December 12, bringing a wide range of refinements focused on usability security and personalization. While not a major redesign, the update adds several practical tools that improve daily iPhone use and expands features across apps services and regions.
A key change arrives in the Reminders app, which now supports alarms. By toggling the “Urgent” option, reminders trigger a full screen alert with snooze and stop options, a Live Activity countdown on the Lock Screen, and a distinct blue design. The Lock Screen itself gains a Liquid Glass slider to adjust clock transparency, alongside solid and colour options. Tinted Liquid Glass now clearly warns users about accessibility conflicts and can automatically disable Reduce Transparency and Increase Contrast. AirDrop security is also enhanced with verification codes for unknown contacts, valid for 30 days and manageable in Settings.
Health tracking gets a major update with Sleep Score, available on compatible Apple Watch models running watchOS 26.2. Scores now range from 0 to 100 with updated bands from Very Low at 0 to 40 to Very High at 96 to 100, replacing the earlier Excellent label. Scores are based on duration worth 50 points, bedtime worth 30 and interruptions worth 20. Podcasts adds auto generated chapters, transcript-based podcast mentions and link access. Passwords now lets users manage sites where passwords are not saved. Freeform introduces smart tables, Apple News gets quicker category access and a separate Following tab, and the Home app supports multipack accessory pairing.
Accessibility expands with screen flash alerts alongside the rear LED. Enhanced Safety Alerts add richer earthquake and threat notifications but remain limited to the United States. Measure adopts a Liquid Glass level design, Games adds size-based sorting and live challenge banners, and CarPlay allows disabling pinned Messages. Menus now feature faster animations, and users see updated privacy information after installing the update. AirPods Live Translation expands to the European Union, while Japan sees major changes including third party app stores, search engine choice and the option to replace Siri with another assistant via the Side Button.
iOS 26.2 also includes bug fixes and over 20 security patches, including 2 actively exploited WebKit vulnerabilities. Apple urges users to update promptly. The update supports all iPhones compatible with iOS 26, with iOS 26.3 beta expected soon.
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