Apple released iOS 26.2, delivering one of the more feature-packed updates of the cycle alongside more than 20 security patches.

By Joe Lombardi From Daily Voice

A new software update is rolling out to iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watch, bringing a mix of practical upgrades, customization tweaks, and important behind-the-scenes fixes that Apple says users should not ignore.

Apple released iOS 26.2 on Friday, Dec. 12, delivering one of the more feature-packed updates of the cycle alongside more than 20 security patches, including fixes for two WebKit vulnerabilities the company said may have already been exploited in targeted attacks.

Among the most noticeable additions is a new “Urgent” option in the Reminders app. When enabled, these reminders trigger a full-screen alert with sound, behaving more like a traditional alarm instead of a passive notification banner.

AirDrop also received a security-focused upgrade. Users can now share files with people outside their contacts using a one-time PIN code. The system remembers those pairings for 30 days, making repeat sharing easier without sacrificing protection.

Customization fans will notice new control over Apple’s “Liquid Glass” lock screen look. A slider now lets users adjust the transparency of the clock display, offering more flexibility over how much of the background shines through.

Several apps gained quality-of-life improvements. Apple Music now lets you view lyrics for downloaded songs offline. The Podcasts app can automatically generate episode chapters if creators do not provide them, and makes links mentioned in episodes easier to access.

For users with compatible AirPods, Live Translation has expanded to include the European Union. In the US, iOS 26.2 adds enhanced safety alerts, enabling richer earthquake and imminent-threat notifications with maps and guidance.

Accessibility updates include expanded options for “Flash for Alerts,” which can now flash the entire screen instead of, or in addition to, the rear LED.

The Games app gained new sorting tools, while Freeform now supports tables that dynamically resize to hold text, images, and drawings.

Security remains the most urgent reason to update. Apple recommends installing iOS 26.2 as soon as possible due to the vulnerabilities addressed.

Users can update by opening Settings, tapping General, then Software Update.