Archive

Developer Betas for iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26 Now Accessible to Developers

Apple has launched its second round of developer beta builds for its upcoming operating systems, including iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26. This follow-up comes after the first wave of betas, introduced during the WWDC keynote on June 9, when Apple presented its latest updates. The second developer betas bring updates to the iOS and iPadOS platforms, with version numbers changing to 23A5276f for both systems. Previous builds were 23A5260n for iPadOS and 23A5260u for iOS.

The macOS 26 beta has also been updated to 25A5295e, while watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS saw their build numbers increase to 23R5296f, 23J5295e, and 23M5279f, respectively. Central to the updates across these operating systems is the introduction of ‘Liquid Glass,’ a new user interface aesthetic that emphasizes transparency, now evident in Apple’s first-party apps. Specific enhancements for iOS 26 include a redesigned battery management system, an upgraded camera app, improved integration with ChatGPT, and new features for AirPods. iPadOS 26 focuses on improving productivity with enhancements to the Files app, the introduction of Preview, and significant updates to window management.

Meanwhile, macOS 26 includes a new Phone app that allows seamless integration of iPhone calls on desktops, Clipboard History features, and an overhaul of Spotlight. Apple is also testing a second track of developer betas for current operating systems, like iOS 18.6 and macOS 15.6. Users are strongly advised against installing beta software on primary devices due to potential data loss issues, and it is recommended to use non-essential hardware instead. For those interested in exploring these updates, waiting for initial public betas is suggested to minimize risks.

macOS Tahoe Beta 2 Restores Original Colors for the Finder Icon

When Apple unveiled macOS Tahoe 26, the redesigned Finder icon sparked controversy by moving the iconic blue color to the right side, which was a significant break from nearly three decades of design tradition. Fortunately, the latest beta version of the software has addressed this change, restoring the coloring while preserving the new aesthetic. Apple is often praised for its meticulous attention to detail in design, but occasionally, the desire to innovate leads to choices that do not resonate well with its user base.

Notably, Stephen Hackett, a writer at *512 Pixels* and an Apple historian, pointed out the inconsistency in the new Finder icon’s color scheme. Historically, the darker color has always been positioned on the left side of the icon, making the recent alteration feel abrupt. Thanks to feedback from influential voices like Hackett, the second developer beta introduced an updated icon that adheres more closely to tradition.

During WWDC, Apple SVP Craig Federighi acknowledged Hackett’s concerns, suggesting that Apple values feedback from its community of enthusiasts. This responsiveness highlights the importance of constructive criticism, especially when the company diverges from its historical design principles. The Finder icon’s roots trace back to the System 7.5.3 boot screen, and it has consistently featured a darker color on the left throughout its evolution.

The recent design changes raised questions about whether they were truly necessary or simply a change for change’s sake. The new beta 2 icon reflects a more balanced approach, with the blue color dominating the logo and a transparent white accent, while still respecting the longstanding tradition. In dark mode, the icon again shifts, but the darker gray and black remain on the left, maintaining a connection to its past.

Some have dubbed the new look a “half mask,” referencing theatrical aesthetics, but at least the redesign honors the legacy of the Finder as it adapts to a more modern, glassy style.

What’s New in macOS Tahoe Developer Beta 2: Key Features and Updates

Apple’s macOS Tahoe has just launched its second developer beta, introducing several visual enhancements. Released two weeks after the first beta, this update raises the build number to 25A5295e, up from 25A5279m. While the previous version, macOS Sequoia, was primarily focused on enhancements related to Apple Intelligence, Tahoe introduces a new “Liquid Glass” design language that spans all Apple platforms, bringing a modern look and feel to the user interface.

This update also includes various productivity features, such as a new Clipboard History capability. Overall, macOS Tahoe is designed to improve the user experience, allowing for seamless phone calls on Macs, enhancing Shortcuts, and even adding native support for Linux containers. However, it’s essential to note that this release marks the end of major updates for Intel Macs, so users with older hardware may feel the impact, especially with the removal of FireWire support.

The second developer beta also introduces visual tweaks and customization options. One key feature is the ability to enable a menu bar background, which is turned off by default. Previously, users could only adjust the visible elements of the menu bar, but now they have the option to toggle the background, which enhances the overall visual appeal and brings back the frosted look that users appreciate.

In addition, Apple has revised the Finder icon, restoring the traditional color scheme that Mac users have known for over 30 years. The initial beta’s inverted colors received criticism, and this change reflects Apple’s responsiveness to user feedback. While a new icon for the Migration Assistant app also appears, there are few other notable changes in this update.

Apple continues to release new developer betas for iOS and macOS frequently, promising more features and improvements in the future.