New features you'll find helpful have arrived with the release of iOS 26.2 for the iPhone. 

Apple has launched the stable version of iOS 26.2, featuring a variety of new functions. If you haven't updated yet, simply head to Settings > General > Software Updates to install it. When prompted to download and install the update, just tap it and you're set! If you've been participating in the iOS 26 beta program and are ready to make the switch, now is the perfect time to install the stable version on your iPhone. 

How to install iOS 26.2 and prepare for the iOS 26.3 beta 

If you're hesitant about using beta software, it might be wise to pass on the iOS 26.3 beta and wait for the iOS 26.4 program, which is anticipated to launch with personal and AI Siri features. On the other hand, if you're interested in discovering the latest enhancements Apple is planning for the iPhone in iOS 26.3 and you have already installed the stable version of iOS 26.2, you'll likely gain access to the iOS 26.3 beta shortly. Just remember to check that the Beta Updates setting under Settings > General > Software Update is configured to either iOS 26 Developer Beta or iOS 26 Public Beta; selecting the Developer Beta will allow you to receive updates first.

One of the standout features in iOS 26.2 is the ability to link an alarm with a reminder. Upon your first visit to the Reminders app after the update, a page will introduce you to this feature, aimed at ensuring you don’t miss any alarms. According to Apple, 'To receive alarms for urgent reminders, enable Reminders to schedule alarms. This way, urgent reminders will trigger an alarm even if your device is on silent or a Focus mode is activated.

When you create a new Reminder, look for the Date & Time section. Below the toggles for setting the date and time, you'll find an option labeled 'Urgent.' Activate this toggle to ensure that the alarm goes off at the designated reminder time. 

A handy new feature has been introduced for the Apple News app. 

Another feature designed to simplify your experience is the introduction of shortcuts at the top of the Apple News app. These shortcuts include:

• Sports

• Puzzles

• Politics

• Business

Simply tap on the category you want to explore, and the app will display the relevant headlines for that section.

Changes have also been made to the Apple Podcast app. First, if a podcast episode lacks individual chapters, the app will generate them automatically. Additionally, it will provide links to other podcasts mentioned while you're listening. Finally, any links referenced in the episode will be available on the episode page.

Apple has updated the Sleep Score feature in the Health app.

Not a fan of Liquid Glass? You now have the option to adjust the transparency level with a slider. When you view the lock screen, long-press on an empty space to access the customization screen. Simply tap on the clock at the top, and you’ll find the slider towards the bottom of the display. 

Finally, Apple has revised the Sleep Scores in response to user feedback, as some people were waking up with high scores yet felt they hadn't rested well. The highest ranking has been updated from 'Very High' to 'Excellent,' and it now requires a higher score to achieve this rating. Any score below 40 will be categorized as 'Very Low,' compared to the previous threshold of under 29 for that designation.