All highlights of iOS 26.1 Beta 3 at a glance Apfelpatient

Apple continues to refine iOS 26. The third beta version of iOS 26.1 adds further visible changes and technical adjustments that demonstrate the direction the system is heading in. iOS 26.1 Beta 3 focuses on design details, new audio features, and expanded AI integration. There are also hints of more open collaboration with third-party developers and improvements in device compatibility.

While iOS 26 laid the foundation for Apple's new AI initiative, "Apple Intelligence," iOS 26.1 Beta 3 feels like a fine-tuning in many areas. Apple is fine-tuning the system, expanding existing features, and preparing for future partnerships. What's particularly interesting is that the code contains hints of major strategic changes—especially in the use of artificial intelligence. At the same time, work is being done on smaller details that improve everyday life and simplify operation.

New Apple TV app icon and name change

One of the most noticeable changes concerns the Apple TV app. Apple is renaming its streaming service Apple TV+ to Apple TV. According to Apple, the renaming comes with a "vibrant new identity." This is immediately recognizable by the new app icon: Instead of the previous gray design, the icon now appears colorful and dynamic. The new icon is visible not only on the iPhone, but in all current beta versions of Apple's operating systems, including tvOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and macOS 15.1.

Image: Apple

The change suggests that Apple wants to simplify and visually unify the brand structure surrounding the streaming service. At the same time, the new design is intended to reflect the further development of the offering, which could extend beyond films and series.

Local recording with more control

One of the practical new features in iOS 26.1 concerns the recording functions. iOS 26 already introduced the ability to save local audio recordings directly to the device—without a cloud connection. This feature is now being expanded in iOS 26.1 Beta 3. In the Settings app, there's a new section called "Local Recording" under "General."

There, you can specify where the recordings are saved. Another new feature is the ability to adjust the gain level of a connected microphone. You can also specify whether only audio or additional data is recorded. These detailed adjustments make the iPhone even more flexible for professional applications—such as voice recordings, interviews, or podcasts.

Preparing for new AI providers

The code for iOS 26.1 Beta 3 contains new language indicating that Apple intends to open up its AI integration in the future. So far, Apple has relied on ChatGPT from OpenAI as its partner for Apple Intelligence. However, the new text blocks in the system indicate that support for additional providers is already being prepared.

Apple had previously stated that it also wanted to work with other AI services such as Google Gemini. Beta 3 now includes character strings that replace ChatGPT with a generic placeholder for third-party providers. This demonstrates that Apple is working on integrating multiple AI services into iOS in parallel or selectively. This could allow users to choose their preferred AI system in the future.

This move would make Apple more independent while also providing greater flexibility. It fits with the long-term strategy of developing Apple Intelligence as an open platform that collaborates with various AI providers.

Improvements in device support

In addition to these visible changes, there are further adjustments in the background. The code of iOS 26.1 Beta 3 shows that Apple is working on better support for third-party smartwatches. This particularly concerns the "Notification Forwarding" feature – forwarding iOS notifications to non-Apple wearables.

This is a small but significant indication that the company is gradually improving compatibility with third-party accessories. This could allow more users who don't own an Apple Watch to benefit from tighter integration in the future.

More than just fine-tuning: iOS 26.1 as a step towards openness

iOS 26.1 Beta 3 demonstrates that Apple is working on many fronts at once. The update brings a redesigned app icon for Apple TV, more control over local recording, and the first signs of a more open AI strategy. Support for external devices is also making progress. Everything indicates that iOS 26.1 isn't just a maintenance update, but a further step toward flexibility and openness. With this version, Apple is laying the foundation for a system that's more adaptable to individual needs—both technically and visually. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / photoschmidt)

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