Apple has released the Release Candidate version of iOS 26.2 ahead of its official December launch. This update continues to introduce new features, improvements, and expanded functionality across the iOS ecosystem. Notably, it includes the anticipated AirDrop with PIN feature and extends Hypertension Notifications support to third-party apps via a new API. These enhancements reflect Apple’s ongoing commitment to refining user experience and integrating health and connectivity features more deeply into iOS devices.
AirDrop with PIN Functionality
One of the standout features under development in iOS 26.2 is the addition of PIN-based AirDrop sharing, designed to improve privacy and security when transferring files.
– The AirDrop menu in Settings now includes a “Manage Known AirDrops Contacts” section.
– This section promises to allow users to automatically appear discoverable for 30 days to contacts with whom a one-time code has been shared.
– While the feature is not fully active yet, it indicates Apple’s move toward making AirDrop sharing safer by preventing unwanted recipients from accessing your device.
This enhancement could help users control who can see their devices, reducing accidental or unwanted file transfers during AirDrop sessions.
Hypertension Notifications API for Developers
Apple is expanding its health integration by enabling Hypertension Notifications to be accessible to third-party apps through a dedicated API.
– This new API allows developers to request permission to access hypertension alerts generated by the Apple Watch.
– Third-party health apps can then integrate these notifications to provide timely and personalized health insights based on blood pressure readings.
– This move is part of Apple’s broader health strategy, leveraging its hardware and software ecosystem to foster better health management for users.
By sharing hypertension data with authorized apps, Apple is promoting a more holistic approach to health tracking beyond the native Health app.
Enhancements to the iOS 26 Experience
Several refinements and new capabilities are also featured in iOS 26.2 to improve user interaction and accessibility.
– The Liquid Glass visual experience has been improved with smoother animations during menu transitions.
– Transparency effects under the “tinted” option have been adjusted to offer more consistent user interface aesthetics.
Region-specific updates include:
– In Japan, iPhone users can customize the side button to activate alternative AI assistants like Gemini, offering more flexible AI interactions.
– European users will gain Live Translation functionality, broadening real-time communication capabilities.
– iOS 26.2 will remove automatic Wi-Fi syncing between the iPhone and Apple Watch if devices are not in close proximity, aiming to optimize wireless connection management.
Updates to Apps and Other Platforms
The update also brings notable app enhancements and cross-platform improvements:
– Measure, Reminders, and iMessage for CarPlay have received tweaks. Notably, users can now disable pinned messages on CarPlay’s infotainment display for a less cluttered interface.
– iPadOS 26.2 reintroduces the drag-and-drop feature from the Dock, Spotlight, or App Library within Slide Over, enhancing multitasking.
– Alongside iOS 26.2, Apple is releasing Release Candidate versions for iPadOS 26.2, macOS Tahoe 26.2, watchOS 26.2, tvOS 26.2, and visionOS 26.2, ensuring ecosystem-wide updates and feature parity across devices.
These improvements underscore Apple’s focus on making their operating systems more intuitive, powerful, and interconnected across the entire device lineup.
