Apple has officially launched the iOS 26.1 release candidate (RC), just over a month after the introduction of iOS 26. This update comes packed with enhancements and a few new settings aimed specifically at developers and beta testers. Users can expect some useful additions, such as an expanded way to adjust the Liquid Glass interface and vital security features that could optimize their iPhone experience.
It’s worth noting that since this is a release candidate, it’s advisable to download it only on a secondary device. Users may encounter bugs or reduced battery efficiency while testing these new features. Although there’s no official timeline for the global rollout of iOS 26.1, Apple typically releases its updates one to two weeks after a release candidate, so the public launch shouldn’t be far off.
Enhancements to Liquid Glass
The iOS 26.1 RC offers a refined approach to the Liquid Glass design introduced in the previous version. Users can now navigate to Settings > Display & Brightness > Liquid Glass to choose between ‘Clear’ or ‘Tinted’ options. This new toggle allows for greater customization of your interface, with “Clear” offering transparency for a clean look and “Tinted” adding contrast for enhanced visibility.
Currently, adjusting these settings mainly affects elements like the Notification Center and certain search bars but does not change the Home Screen appearance. However, users can still customize the Liquid Glass design there by long-pressing the screen, selecting Edit, and then Customize. From this menu, app icons can also be toggled to either Clear or Tinted.
Automatic Security Improvements
A notable addition in this update is a new setting enabling automatic installation of background security enhancements. This can be accessed via Settings > Privacy & Security > Background Security Improvements. This feature aims to provide ongoing protection for your device without the need for manual updates, though those experiencing compatibility issues may find it helpful to uninstall specific improvements using the three-dot menu.
This function aligns with Apple’s commitment to rapid security responses, a feature that’s been underutilized since the introduction of RSRs in 2023. While it may not be overly flashy, this enhancement ensures users remain ahead of potential security issues without constant monitoring.
Preventing Accidental Camera Access
The iOS 26.1 RC also introduces a new toggle designed to prevent unintentional camera openings from the Lock Screen. Users can find this setting by navigating to Settings > Camera and scrolling down to the Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera option, allowing for a more controlled experience when accessing the camera function.
Control Over Call Haptics
For those who prefer a quieter experience, there’s now the option to disable haptic feedback associated with call connections and disconnections. Navigate to Settings > Apps > Phone and toggle the haptics off. This feature minimizes distractions, ensuring you’re not confused by vibrations signaling a call status change.
Local Capture Feature Expansion
The Local Capture feature, which allows for high-quality recordings during calls, has received an upgraded settings menu in the iOS 26.1 RC. Users can now select their preferred save location and even choose to only record audio if desired. This functionality ensures that users can keep essential conversations and reviews at their fingertips.
New Accessibility Options
Among the accessibility strides, a new preference setting allows for single-touch actions over sliding actions, making navigation easier for those with different needs. Users can locate this feature under Settings > Accessibility > Touch.
Alarm Functionality Update
The alarm feature has also seen a small but effective update. With the RC, snoozing an alarm now requires a swipe to stop instead of just pressing a button, ensuring that users truly engage before silencing their morning wake-up call.
Music Control Enhancements
While Apple Music enjoyed some new features in iOS 26, the 26.1 RC makes song switching even smoother. Users can now swipe left or right on the song title to change tracks, enhancing the overall usability of the app during music playback.
Expanded Live Translation Capabilities
The Live Translation feature has added more languages to its repertoire. Users can look forward to seamless translation for Mandarin (simplified and traditional), Italian, Japanese, and Korean, making international communication even smoother.
AI Features Broadened
For users with Apple Intelligence, the iOS 26.1 RC introduces these advanced AI functions to several additional languages, including Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Turkish, and Vietnamese, providing a richer user experience across different linguistic backgrounds.
Calendar Interface Upgrade
The Calendar interface has also been updated, with specific events now highlighted at the bottom when viewed in List View. This subtle change allows for easier tracking of your schedule at a glance.
New Video Scrubbing Bar Design
Another minor yet impactful change comes to the video scrubbing bar in the Photos app, which is now more compact and streamlined, improving the user interface during video playback.
With these enhancements in the iOS 26.1 RC, developers and beta testers are set to enjoy a range of improved features that will soon be available to all users. The potential for further updates before the official launch remains, as Apple continues to refine its latest software iterations.
For more iOS insights, dive into our coverage of the iPhone updates and how to navigate the iOS interface more efficiently.