Just one week after the launch of iOS 26, Apple has released the first beta of iOS 26.1. The update not only brings enhancements to Apple Intelligence, but also practical changes to key apps like Safari, Apple Music, Photos, and Calendar. Apple is also working on a new security concept that will work in the background.
iOS 26.1 Beta 1 is focusing on fine-tuning. The biggest innovations are expanded language support from Apple Intelligence and AirPods Live Translation. There are also small but useful adjustments to the design and usability of various apps. At the same time, Apple is taking a step toward better device security by giving background updates a new role.
New languages for Apple Intelligence
Apple Intelligence now supports even more languages, including Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Traditional Chinese, and Vietnamese. This significantly expands Apple's AI capabilities beyond the existing core languages.
AirPods Live Translation with additional languages
The Live Translation feature for AirPods now supports Japanese, Korean, Italian, and Chinese—both traditional and simplified Chinese. This makes Translation Mode usable in more regions and situations.
Changes in the phone
The number pad in the Phone app in iOS 26.1 uses the new design called Liquid Glass. This makes the numbers appear more modern and clearer.
Apple Music with better handling
The Apple Music player is now smoother to use. Swiping over the song title lets you switch directly between the current, next, and previous tracks without having to use additional buttons.
Improvements in the Photos app
The Photos app has also received two changes. The slider for browsing videos has been redesigned and is more responsive. Furthermore, the navigation bar now has a matte finish, making it stand out better, especially against light backgrounds.
Calendar with better overview
The calendar displays events from different calendars with a colored background in some views. This makes it easier to distinguish between appointments and assign them more quickly.
Safari with customized tab bar
Safari has a redesigned tab bar at the bottom of iOS 26.1. It's wider and has less border space, which is intended to simplify use.
Background security improvement
Apple has changed the name of Rapid Security Updates to Background Security Improvement. This refers to a system that installs security updates and important system files in the background before they become part of a regular iOS update. The system notes state:
Background Security Enhancement improves iPhone security by installing security enhancements and system files before they're available in iOS software updates. In rare cases of compatibility issues, these deliveries may be temporarily removed and then improved in a feature software update.
Additional functions
As is usual with beta versions, iOS 26.1 may contain other minor adjustments that only become apparent during testing.
iOS 26.1 Beta 1 focuses on fine-tuning and stability
iOS 26.1 Beta 1 is a typical interim update with a clear direction. New languages for Apple Intelligence, expanded translation capabilities with AirPods, visual tweaks in several apps, and a new security strategy form the core. It shows that Apple values continuous improvement even between major version updates. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Anna Hoychuk)
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