iOS 26.1 Beta 3 is Out! - What's New?

Apple has released iOS 26.1 beta 3, introducing new features like easier background security updates, enhanced local capture options, and an updated Apple TV icon, alongside ongoing performance and bug assessments.

• Background security updates can now be uninstalled directly on the device.

• Apple TV app rebrand and icon update may signal new hardware.

• Code references suggest third-party AI integration and spyware notifications are coming.

iOS 26.1 beta 3 is now available for developers, bringing several updates and new features across Apple's ecosystem, including a new option to uninstall background security updates without a computer, expanded local capture functionalities, and a redesigned Apple TV icon possibly hinting at new hardware. While some performance issues and visual bugs persist, the update also contains code suggesting future enhancements like third-party AI integration and native spyware notifications.

Key New Features

• 00:01:03 iOS 26.1 beta 3 introduces significant new features, including a 'Background Security Improvements' option that allows users to easily remove and restart installed security updates without needing a Mac or Windows computer. Additionally, 'Local Capture' now offers new settings to select save locations and record audio only, expanding its utility for recording audio and video during calls.

• 00:02:18 The Apple TV app features a new icon with additional color, coinciding with Apple's rebranding efforts to drop 'plus' from 'Apple TV+' and potentially hinting at a new Apple TV device or a home device in the near future. While the 'TV plus' name has been omitted in the app's code for terms and conditions, broader changes are expected soon.

• 00:04:25 New accessibility options have been added, specifically 'Prefer single touch actions' under the Touch menu, which allows user interface items to be activated with a single touch rather than a sliding action. The alarm graphic in the clock app has also been updated, appearing wider and filling more of the screen for slide-to-cancel or snooze actions.

• 00:05:11 Code references within iOS 26.1 beta 3 hint at several upcoming features: third-party AI integration beyond ChatGPT, notification forwarding for third-party devices like smartwatches, and native spyware notifications to alert users of potential attacks. There's also mention of a new 'ethereal currents' wallpaper, though it's not yet live in settings.