iOS 26.2 is set to be released soon, bringing along a variety of new features. Many of these enhancements pertain to Apple’s native iPhone applications. Here’s a rundown of all the new additions across six Apple apps in iOS 26.2.
## Reminders
Reminders began as a basic list app, but through years of enhancements, Apple has transformed it into a comprehensive task manager. iOS 26.2 introduces a new option for users to flag a reminder as ‘Urgent’ when it has a specified due time. Designating it as ‘urgent’ triggers an alarm on your iPhone when that reminder reaches its due time. This new alarm can be snoozed for 9 minutes, allowing users to temporarily silence the alarm without losing track of the task. Furthermore, it utilizes Live Activities for a visual cue to assist users in recalling their tasks.
## Apple Podcasts
Apple Podcasts is among the numerous popular podcast applications available on iPhone. In iOS 26.2, three new features enhance the appeal of Apple’s Podcasts app:
1. Automatic chapters
2. Podcast mentions
3. ’From this episode’
Automatic chapters leverage podcast transcripts to automatically generate chapters for all podcasts, improving user experience. The additional features facilitate easier access to links for other podcast episodes referenced by hosts, along with recommendations for TV shows, music, books, and more.
## Freeform
Freeform is enhanced with a robust new feature in iOS 26.2: table support. Freeform serves as Apple’s open canvas whiteboard/playground app where users can craft ‘boards’ filled with text, images, charts, files, links, and more. The integration of tables broadens its functionality, simplifying the visual organization of information.
## Apple Games
Apple Games is a newly introduced app that debuted in iOS 26. With user feedback considered, Apple has rolled out three improvements in iOS 26.2:
1. Library Filters: Sort your game library by titles that present challenges or those your friends are engaging with.
2. Controller Support: Enhanced navigation using Bluetooth controllers for dedicated gaming.
3. Real-time challenge updates: Challenge scores will now remain up-to-date in real-time during gameplay, thanks to live updates.
These modifications are designed to elevate the overall gaming experience for users.
## Apple Music
Apple Music enjoys a beneficial update in iOS 26.2 with the addition of offline lyrics support. This feature enables users to view lyrics even when there is no internet connection, making it practical for users in various scenarios, such as during flights or in remote locations.
## Apple News
Apple News features multiple updates in iOS 26.2 aimed at streamlining access to the app’s growing array of features. The update includes design modifications that bring previously less visible features to the forefront. New quick links at the top of the Today screen provide easy access to sections like Puzzles, Sports, Politics, and Food. Moreover, the navigation tab bar has been refreshed to improve the user experience.
Which new features of iOS 26.2 are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts in the comments.
