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iOS 26 Beta 5: All the New Features and UI Changes So Far
Apple has released iOS 26 beta 5, and while major new features have slowed, this version packs subtle UI changes, refined animations, and a more polished experience.
ByVikhyat
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Key Takeaways:
- iOS 26 Beta 5 focuses on UI polish with smoother animations, better button layouts, and refined transitions that improve visual clarity across the system.
- Camera app adds Classic Mode swipe option that restores the older scrolling direction between photo modes for a more familiar feel.
- AirDrop gets a new icon design in the iOS 26 Share Sheet, better matching the system’s updated visual style.
- Lock Screen animations feel more fluid with smoother transitions for passcode entry and Now Playing indicators.
- Control Center adds security insights with better Wi-Fi transition effects and clearer network encryption icons on long-press.
Just a few days after releasing the first public beta of iOS 26, Apple has now seeded the fifth developer beta of iOS 26. While major feature additions in recent betas have slowed down ahead of the expected September release, this update still brings several small but noteworthy changes.
This update primarily focuses on enhancing the user experience by refining button placements, improving animations, and polishing the visual design across the system.
Here’s a complete breakdown of everything new in iOS 26 beta 5, so you know exactly what to expect.
Camera: Classic Mode for Easier Swiping
Apple has introduced a new feature in the Camera app called Classic Mode, which reverses the scroll direction when switching between shooting modes. This brings a more intuitive feel for users accustomed to the older swipe pattern.
AirDrop: Refreshed Icon Design
Before iOS 26 beta 5, the AirDrop icon looked nearly identical to its iOS 18 version. Now, a redesigned AirDrop icon appears in the Share Sheet, bringing it in line with iOS 26’s updated visual language.
Lock Screen: New Passcode and Music Animations
Apple has significantly improved animations across the UI with iOS 26 beta 5:
- Passcode animation: When entering your passcode, the numbers now bounce into place with a smooth, fluid motion.
- Music lock animation: Locking your iPhone while music is playing now triggers a subtle new animation.
Control Center: Smoother Page Transitions
Similar to the Lock Screen, iOS 26 beta 5 brings a bouncier animation to the Control Center. Switching between pages now features a more natural and visually appealing transition.
Wi-Fi Details: More Transparent Security Info
Long-pressing the Wi-Fi tile in the Control Center now reveals whether a network is secured or public. A small lock icon will appear next to private networks for better clarity.
Siri: Smarter Travel Recommendations
Siri is getting more proactive. In beta 5, it can detect when you’re about to travel and offer cellular connectivity suggestions outside your home country. However, this feature may not be useful for everyone.
Wallet: Clearer Preauthorized Payments Label
In the Wallet app, Apple has updated the UI by replacing the ambiguous “Payments” button for Apple Card with a clearer “Preauthorized Payments” label, making its function more obvious.
Dynamic Island: Low Battery Warning
The Dynamic Island now expands to display a low battery warning when your iPhone’s charge dips to 20%, offering a more visible cue without interrupting your experience. This cute new low battery animation adds a touch of personality while ensuring you’re aware of your battery status at a glance.
Dock: Expanded Liquid Glass Effect
The Liquid Glass effect on the Home Screen dock has been slightly expanded. Although subtle, the change gives the dock a richer, more refined look that fits iOS 26’s updated aesthetic.
Splash Screens: Feature Highlights in More Apps
Apple has added new splash screens in several apps to showcase recently added features. These pop-ups help users better understand what’s new after updating.
Fitness+: Updated App Icon
The Fitness app now sports a new icon for Fitness+, aligning with Apple’s ongoing design evolution in iOS 26.
iOS 26: Stable Release Timeline
With the iPhone 17 series launch event rumored for September 9, 2025, Apple is expected to roll out the stable iOS 26 update between September 14 and 16, right before iPhone 17 deliveries begin.
Right now, Apple seems to be shifting from feature rollouts to fine-tuning the overall experience. These subtle refinements in beta 5 suggest that the final release is just around the corner.
What do you think of these updates in iOS 26 beta 5? Which feature are you most excited to try out? Let us know in the comments!
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Vikhyat
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