iOS 26.2 RC Release Candidate: What to Expect in 2025

Apple has officially rolled out the iOS 26.2 Release Candidate (RC) for developers and public beta testers. This version is typically the final build before the public release, unless Apple finds additional issues that require an RC2. Here’s everything you need to know about iOS 26.2 RC, including new features, performance updates, and hidden changes.

What is iOS 26.2 RC?

The Release Candidate is the last pre-release version of iOS before the stable update. If no major bugs are found, this build will be released to the public. The update size is 8.52 GB on iPhone 17 Pro Max, similar across other devices, as it reinstalls the entire system when moving from beta to RC.

Other OS Updates Released

Alongside iOS 26.2 RC, Apple also released:

iPadOS 26.2 RC
macOS 26.2 RC
watchOS 26.2 RC
tvOS & HomePod OS 26.2 RC
visionOS 26.2 RC
RC versions of iOS 18.7.3 and iPadOS 18.7.3

Build Number

The build number for iOS 26.2 RC is 23C52. If no issues arise, this will be the final public release build.

New Features & Changes in iOS 26.2 RC

1. Focus Mode Color Update

Sleep mode color changed from teal to purple for better visibility.

2. Reminders App Upgrade

New Urgent Reminder option with alarms and repeat settings.

3. Liquid Glass Customization

Lock screen clock now supports opacity adjustments for frosted or transparent glass effects.

4. Animation Improvements

Menus and folders now feature smooth pop-out animations, similar to WWDC demos.

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5. AirDrop Security Update

New AirDrop Code feature for secure sharing with non-contacts for up to 30 days.
Works across Apple devices and even with Pixel phones.

6. Accessibility Enhancements

Flash for Alerts now includes screen flash option in addition to LED flash.

7. Apple Music & Podcasts

Offline lyrics support in Apple Music.
Podcast app UI refinements.

8. Freeform App

Added table support for better organization.

9. Health Updates

Sleep score improvements.
Hypertension notifications expanded to more countries.

10. Regional Features

Third-party app stores allowed in Japan.
Button customization for alternative assistants in Japan.

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11. Messages & RCS

RCS messaging improvements (encryption expected but not confirmed yet).

12. Hidden Code Features

New feature codenamed “Grape” related to Find My (possibly AirTag 2).

Performance & Battery

Smooth scrolling and animations on iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Geekbench scores: Single-core: 3,823 | Multi-core: 9,893.
Battery life remains strong with adaptive power management.

Bug Fixes

App Library lag resolved.
Widget lag fixed.
CarPlay stability improved (though some issues remain).
Wallpaper desaturation bug reduced.

Expected Public Release

Likely between December 8–15, 2025.
iOS 26.3 beta expected mid-December; iOS 26.4 in March with Apple Intelligence Siri 2.0.

Final Thoughts

The iOS 26.2 Release Candidate is packed with refinements, security updates, and UI improvements. If you’re on the beta, update now and share feedback. For regular users, expect the public release soon.