Update now: Apple iOS 26.2.1 arrives with support for AirTags 2
Apple has released the latest update to its iPhone operating systemand users with compatible devices can update to iOS 26.2.1 immediately.
Compared to the previous iOS 26 updatesthe new upgrade is extremely light. The official description is a single short sentence: "This update provides support for AirTag (2nd generation) along with bug fixes."
Apple recently announced the launch of the AirTag 2after months of rumors and speculation. The new AirTags have a louder speaker and an expanded range. In additionApple is offering improved precision-tracking features that point you to the exact location of your missing itemdown to the foot.
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If you plan to pick up the new AirTagyou'll want to upgrade to iOS 26.2.1. (The new AirTag is the same price as the original version released in 2021but the original is currently on sale at Amazon.)
We generally recommend upgrading your OS as soon as possibleas these updates usually deliver important security fixes. Strangelythat's not the case with iOS 26.2.1which doesn't note any security patches.
What's new in iOS 26.2.1?
StillApple says iOS 26.2.1 does bring some bug fixes. (If you want to get into the weeds on those fixes@onejailbreak_ has a detailed breakdown of the tweaks.)
Hopefullythose changes will make Liquid Glass and iOS 26 work more smoothly and solve some of the battery issues users have complained about. Ever since its releaseLiquid Glass has been controversial.
And if you're looking for an even more substantial update to your iPhone's OSyou can also sign up for the iOS 26.3 public beta 3which is also available now.
How to update to iOS 26.2.1
To update your iPhonego to your device's settingsthen tap or click on "General." From therelook for "Software Update," where you'll find the options to "Update Now" or later in the evening while you're sleeping.
Timothy Beck Werth is the Tech Editor at Mashablewhere he leads coverage and assignments for the Tech and Shopping verticals. Tim has over 15 years of experience as a journalist and editorand he has particular experience covering and testing consumer technologysmart home gadgetsand men’s grooming and products. Previouslyhe was the Managing Editor and then Site Director of SPY.coma men's product review and life website. As a writer for GQhe covered everything from bull-riding competitions to the best Legos for adultsand he’s also contributed to publications such as The Daily BeastGear Patroland The Awl.
Tim studied print journalism at the University of Southern California. He currently splits his time between BrooklynNY and CharlestonSC. He's currently working on his second novela science-fiction book.
