logo
iOS 26 Beta 5 & Public Beta 2: The 10 Best New Features (and Why They Matter)

iOS 26 Beta 5 & Public Beta 2: The 10 Best New Features (and Why They Matter)

Geeky Gadgets2 days ago
The release of iOS 26 Beta 5 and Public Beta brings a host of new features aimed at enhancing both functionality and user experience. These updates focus on improving efficiency, refining aesthetics, and offering greater customization options. With a mix of practical upgrades and visually appealing changes, iOS 26 ensures your device feels more intuitive and tailored to your needs. In the video below, HotshotTek explores the top features that stand out in this update.
Watch this video on YouTube. Smarter Battery Management
Battery performance is a critical aspect of any mobile device, and iOS 26 addresses this with a smarter adaptive power mode. This feature dynamically adjusts system settings when it detects rapid battery drain, helping you maximize usage time without manual intervention. Additionally, a new low-power mode animation activates when your battery level drops below 20%, providing a clear visual reminder to conserve energy. These enhancements ensure you can rely on your device for longer periods, even during heavy usage. Refined Visual Animations
The system-wide animations in iOS 26 have been carefully polished to deliver a smoother and more engaging experience. From the subtle bounce effect when locking your screen to the fluid transitions in the Control Center, every interaction feels more seamless. Even small details, such as the animations for toggle switches, have been refined to add a touch of sophistication. These changes may seem minor, but they significantly enhance the overall usability and aesthetic appeal of the operating system. Expanded Customization Options
Personalization takes a leap forward with iOS 26, offering users more ways to make their devices uniquely theirs. A standout feature is the introduction of a wallpaper collection celebrating trailblazers from Southeastern Asia, showcasing visually striking and culturally significant designs. These wallpapers are easy to download and provide a fresh way to customize your home screen. Whether you prefer bold patterns or subtle artistry, the new options ensure your device reflects your personal style. Improved Wi-Fi Security Indicators
Staying secure while connected to Wi-Fi networks is now more straightforward, thanks to updated Wi-Fi security indicators in the Control Center. These indicators use lock icons to differentiate between secure and non-secure networks, giving you a quick visual cue about the safety of your connection. This feature is particularly useful when connecting to public Wi-Fi, helping you make informed decisions and prioritize your online security. Local Media Recording Made Simple
Capturing important moments has never been easier with the enhanced local media recording feature. Whether you're participating in a FaceTime call, hosting a Zoom meeting, or recording a podcast, you can now save audio-only or video recordings directly to your device. Files are automatically organized into designated folders, making sure quick and easy access. This streamlined approach to media recording is perfect for both personal and professional use. Redesigned AirDrop Interface
The AirDrop interface receives a significant visual upgrade with a liquid glass aesthetic. This redesign not only enhances the appearance of the feature but also aligns with the system's focus on fluid and modern design elements. The updated interface makes file sharing feel more intuitive and visually appealing, making sure a smoother experience when transferring files between devices. Music App Upgrades
The Music app sees both visual and functional improvements in iOS 26. The bottom menu now features a refined liquid glass effect, creating a more immersive experience as you navigate through your playlists and albums. These updates make managing your music library more enjoyable and user-friendly, making sure that your favorite songs and albums are always just a tap away. Smoother Camera Mode Transitions
Switching between camera modes is now more seamless, thanks to a new toggle in the settings menu. The 'Camera Classic Mode' ensures lag-free transitions, allowing you to focus on capturing the perfect shot without interruptions. Whether you're switching from photo to video mode or exploring advanced settings, the improved responsiveness enhances your photography experience. Enhanced Control Center
The Control Center receives subtle yet impactful updates that improve its overall utility. Refreshed icons and a more intuitive layout make it easier to manage your device's settings. These changes ensure that essential tools are always within reach, streamlining your interactions and saving you time when adjusting settings on the go. Upgraded Screenshot Animation
Taking screenshots becomes a more visually engaging process with the introduction of a new waving animation. This feature highlights the available screenshot tools and editing options, making it easier to annotate, edit, and share your captures immediately after taking them. The updated animation not only adds a touch of flair but also improves the functionality of the screenshot feature. Why iOS 26 Stands Out
The iOS 26 Beta 5 and Public Beta updates deliver a comprehensive mix of functionality, customization, and aesthetic refinements. From smarter battery management to enhanced Wi-Fi security indicators, these features prioritize user convenience and efficiency. The polished animations, redesigned AirDrop interface, and expanded customization options ensure your device feels modern and personalized. Whether you're exploring the new wallpapers, enjoying the Music app upgrades, or benefiting from smoother camera transitions, iOS 26 offers a well-rounded experience that caters to both practical needs and aesthetic preferences.
Unlock more potential in iOS 26 Beta Features by reading previous articles we have written.
Source & Image Credit: HotshotTek Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

CoreWeave revenue beats estimates on AI boom but shares fall on bigger loss
CoreWeave revenue beats estimates on AI boom but shares fall on bigger loss

Reuters

time19 minutes ago

  • Reuters

CoreWeave revenue beats estimates on AI boom but shares fall on bigger loss

Aug 12 (Reuters) - CoreWeave (CRWV.O), opens new tab easily topped quarterly revenue estimates on Tuesday as the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence tools boosted demand for its cloud services, but a bigger-than-expected net loss sent its shares slumping 10% after the bell. The company currently operates 33 AI data centers across the U.S. and Europe and offers access to backer Nvidia's (NVDA.O), opens new tab chips, which are highly coveted by enterprises to train and run large AI models amid intense competition. CoreWeave reported revenue backlog of $30.1 billion as of end of June, compared with $25.9 billion on March 31. "Demand is humming, but it is the cost of growth that tempered the stock down in aftermarket trading," said Michael Ashley Schulman of Running Point Capital Advisors. Operating expenses jumped to $1.19 billion in the second quarter, from $317.7 million a year earlier. The company posted a net loss of $290.5 million, compared with analysts' average estimate of $190.6 million, according to data compiled by LSEG. "We are scaling rapidly as we look to meet the unprecedented demand for AI," CEO Michael Intrator said in the earnings statement. Investors have also focused on the company's reliance on a few big customers. "The backlog surge to $30B+ suggests demand visibility well beyond 2025, but the concentration in mega-customers like OpenAI means those relationships remain both the crown jewel and the single point of failure," said eMarketer analyst Jeremy Goldman. Meanwhile, CoreWeave executives reiterated the benefits of its $9 billion all-stock deal for crypto miner Core Scientific (CORZ.O), opens new tab. The deal, announced in July, is facing opposition. Core Scientific's largest shareholder, Two Seas Capital, has said it would vote against the sale. CoreWeave reported second-quarter revenue of $1.21 billion, beating estimates of $1.08 billion. The Livingston, New Jersey-based company raised its annual revenue forecast to be between $5.15 billion and $5.35 billion. It had previously projected annual revenue of $4.9 billion to $5.1 billion. Shares of the company, which reaffirmed its annual capital expenditure projection, were trading at $133.71. They have gained nearly three-fold since the IPO in March.

Your security check at the airport might get faster — just need to scan your face first
Your security check at the airport might get faster — just need to scan your face first

The Independent

timean hour ago

  • The Independent

Your security check at the airport might get faster — just need to scan your face first

Travelers in U.S. airports may be able to move through the security line a little faster now — if they're willing to let the government scan their faces. The Department of Homeland Security is now using facial recognition software in its TSA PreCheck Touchless ID lines. Those lanes are separate lanes from the typical PreCheck lanes, which have reportedly become slow as more travelers take advantage of the service, according to the Washington Post. The program started in 2021 at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, but is now available in 15 airports. Those airports include: Chicago O'Hare; Dallas-Fort Worth; Denver; Detroit Metropolitan; Harry Reid; Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta; JFK; LaGuardia; LAX; Newark; Portland International in Oregon; Ronald Regan; Salt Lake City; San Francisco and Seattle-Tacoma International Airports. Some lanes are only available with certain airlines at certain airports. Travelers hoping to jump into the supposedly faster lines should check before traveling if their airport and airline use the service. For travelers who don't mind letting the fed scan their faces, they have to first be a TSA PreCheck member with a valid Known Traveler Number and an active airline profile — like a loyalty program — as well as a valid passport. The facial recognition lanes can be faster than other security lines. For one, travelers don't have to stop to hand over their IDs to TSA officials. They simply walk through the line dividers until the reach the luggage X-ray machines. The other reason is that the line is relatively new and hasn't been inundated with travelers — yet. Reporters at the Washington Post that tried the new program reported that during one attempt the facial recognition machine was under maintenance, and during the second, a Touchless ID symbol did not print on their boarding pass, and they were not able to time how long going through the line without issue would take. The major question looming about facial recognition technology is Americans' privacy and how that data will be stored and used. Critics of the technology cited a 2019 incident in which a DHS data breach compromised the photos of American travelers. The information was accessed through one of the DHS's subcontractors, according to the Washington Post. The TSA said that its databases are encrypted and that traveler information is protected from breaches. A new bill in the Senate would allow for airport officials to scan travelers' faces, but only if they opt-in to the technology. It would ban using the tech for anything other than verifying people's identities, and require the agency to immediately delete the facial scans once the check is complete. Right now, travelers can opt out of facial recognition scanning by telling airport security you'd prefer a "standard ID check."

Exclusive: Pentagon Golden Dome to have 4-layer defense system, slides show
Exclusive: Pentagon Golden Dome to have 4-layer defense system, slides show

Reuters

timean hour ago

  • Reuters

Exclusive: Pentagon Golden Dome to have 4-layer defense system, slides show

WASHINGTON, Aug 12 (Reuters) - The Trump administration's flagship Golden Dome missile defense system will include four layers -- one satellite-based and three on land -- with 11 short-range batteries located across the continental U.S., Alaska and Hawaii, according to a U.S. government slide presentation on the project first reported by Reuters. The slides, tagged 'Go Fast, Think Big!' were presented to 3,000 defense contractors in Huntsville, Alabama, last week and reveal the unprecedented complexity of the system, which faces an ambitious 2028 deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump. The system is estimated to cost $175 billion, but the slides show uncertainties still loom over the basic architecture of the project because the number of launchers, interceptors, ground stations, and missile sites needed for the system has yet to be determined. "They have a lot of money, but they don't have a target of what it costs yet," said one U.S. official. So far Congress has appropriated $25 billion for Golden Dome in Trump's tax-and-spend bill passed in July. Another $45.3 billion is earmarked for Golden Dome in his2026 presidential budget request, opens new tab. Intended as a multi-layered missile defense shield for the United States, Golden Dome draws inspiration from Israel's Iron Dome, but is significantly bigger due to the geography it will need to protect and the complexity due to the varied threats it will face. According to the slides, the system architecture consists of four integrated layers: a space-based sensing and targeting layer for missile warning and tracking as well as "missile defense" and three land-based layers consisting of missile interceptors, radar arrays, and potentially lasers. One surprise was a new large missile field - seemingly in the Midwest according to a map contained in the presentation - for Next Generation Interceptors (NGI) which are made by Lockheed Martin (LMT.N), opens new tab and would be a part of the "upper layer" alongside Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Aegis systems which are also made by Lockheed. NGI is the modernized missile for the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) network of radars, interceptors and other equipment - currently the primary missile defense shield to protect the United States from intercontinental ballistic missiles from rogue states. The U.S. operates GMD launch sites in southern California and Alaska. This plan would add a third site in the Midwest to counter additional threats. Other technical hurdles the slides identified included communication latency across the "kill chain" of systems. Contractors such as Lockheed, Northrop Grumman (NOC.N), opens new tab, RTX, and Boeing (BA.N), opens new tab have a variety of missile defense systems. Notably, the slides did not mention Elon Musk's SpaceX, which was part of a bid for Golden Dome contracts alongside software maker Palantir (PLTR.O), opens new tab and defense systems manufacturer Anduril. The Pentagon said it is gathering information "from industry, academia, national labs, and other government agencies for support to Golden Dome" but it would be "imprudent" to release more information on a program in these early stages. One key goal for Golden Dome is to shoot targets down during their 'boost phase,' the slow and predictable climb through the Earth's atmosphere of a missile. Rather, it seeks to field space-based interceptors that can more quickly intercept incoming missiles. The presentation highlighted that the United States "has built both interceptors and re-entry vehicles" but has never built a vehicle that can handle the heat of reentry while targeting an enemy missile. The last lines of defense dubbed the "under layer" and "Limited Area Defense" will include new radars and current systems like the Patriot missile defense system and a new "common" launcher that will launch current and future interceptors against all threat types. These modular and relocatable systems would be designed to minimize reliance on prepared sites, allowing for rapid deployment across multiple theaters. Space Force General Michael Guetlein, confirmed last month to lead the Golden Dome project, has 30 days from his July 17 confirmation to build a team, another 60 days to deliver an initial system design, and 120 days to present a full implementation plan, including satellite and ground station details, people briefed on a memo signed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have told Reuters.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store