At the same time, the company also launched the beta version 3 of iPadOS 26.1, macOS Tahoe 26.1, watchOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, and visionOS 26.1. The most notable change in this series of updates to date is the return of the Slide Over feature on iPadOS - a tool that helps users open a second application in compact window mode.
However, most of the new features are focused on iOS 26.1. In the previous beta, Apple introduced the Slide to Stop feature for smartwatches. Now, when users want to turn off the alarm from the lock screen, they will have to slide on the screen, reminiscent of the famous Slide to Unlock (Slide to unlock) that once appeared on early iPhone models.
Apple also adds the ability to create custom sports exercises in the Fitness app. This could be a step in the plan to comprehensively upgrade the app, especially after the company introduced the heart rate sensor on AirPods Pro 3.
With iOS 26.1 beta 3, users (especially developers) can set up their own workout session by choosing the type of exercise, expected calorie intake, effort level, duration, and start time.
In the two previous beta versions, Apple constantly refined the Liquid Glass effect - an interface technology that brings a smooth feel.
The company has added an iOS 26 wallpaper to the Screen & Brightness Settings section, applying the glass lighting effect to the digital keyboard in the Phone app, and backing up the icon and text in the Settings section for more synchronization.
Apple also improves the light refractive effect around iconic or dark background applications, and upgrades the Photo app (Phots) interface to make managing multiple photos at the same time easier.
Some other small changes include: Users can skyrocket the thinning Re played icon in Apple Music to move to the next song or go back to the previous song. At the same time, Apple is continuing to expand the language to support Apple Intelligence as well as the Live Service feature ( Live Translation) that was recently introduced.
