iOS 26.1 Beta 2 Introduces Slide to Stop Alarm Feature to Prevent Accidental Dismissals

Apple has released the second beta of iOS 26.1 to developers. The update introduces a significant change to how iPhone alarms function. This move aims to solve a common user frustration.

According to Reuters, the change is part of Apple’s ongoing refinement of its mobile operating system. The update also includes subtle tweaks to iPad multitasking and system-wide design elements.

Key Changes in the Latest Beta Release

The most notable change alters the alarm dismissal gesture on the Lock Screen. Users must now slide to stop an alarm instead of tapping. Tapping the screen will still activate the snooze function.

This new “Slide to Stop” mechanic is designed to prevent accidentally turning off an alarm. It applies to both alarms and timers set through the Clock app. The change addresses long-standing user complaints.

Initial user feedback suggests the new method is more deliberate. It requires a conscious action to fully dismiss an alert. This could help heavy sleepers and those who often tap their screen blindly.

Broader Impact and Additional Features

Beyond alarms, the beta brings several other refinements. iPadOS 26.1 sees the return of the Slide Over multitasking feature. It now works alongside the new window-based system introduced in iPadOS 26.

Users can have multiple app windows open while still accessing a Slide Over app. This offers greater flexibility for power users. The setting is activated via the green window resizing button.

Other adjustments include left-aligned text in the Settings app and a new “Display Borders” toggle in Accessibility. These changes continue Apple’s trend of incremental, user-focused improvements.

The new Slide to Stop alarm feature represents a thoughtful solution to a daily annoyance. This update shows Apple’s continued attention to user experience details. Further refinements are expected before the public release.

Info at your fingertips

What is the new alarm feature in iOS 26.1?

The new feature requires you to slide to stop an alarm. This replaces the old tap to stop method. Tapping will only snooze the alarm for a later time.

Why did Apple change the alarm dismissal method?

Apple likely changed it to prevent users from accidentally turning off their alarms. The slide gesture is a more deliberate action than a simple tap. This should help people who routinely miss their alarms.

Is the Slide to Stop feature available for timers?

Yes, the new slide gesture also applies to timers. This creates a consistent experience across all time-based alerts on the device. The change is part of the iOS 26.1 beta 2 release.

What other changes are in this beta update?

The update reintroduces Slide Over for iPad and tweaks display settings. It also includes new options for external microphones and custom workouts. These are smaller refinements to the overall system.

When will iOS 26.1 be released to the public?

Apple has not announced a final public release date. The software is currently in developer beta testing. A public release typically follows several weeks of testing.