How iPhones Alarm

Apple’s New iOS Update Transforms Reminders into Urgent Alarms

Apple‘s latest iOS 26.2 beta introduces a powerful new feature for the Reminders app. Users can now set alarms that function like a traditional Clock alarm. This provides a much more urgent notification for critical tasks.

The feature is designed to ensure you never miss an important reminder. It includes a snooze button and a slide-to-stop control. According to Bloomberg, this change addresses a long-standing user request for more assertive task notifications.

OS 26.2 Reminder Alarms

How to Activate the New Alarm System

Before using alarms, the Reminders app needs permission. You must enable alarm access in your iPhone’s Settings. Navigate to Settings, then Apps, and select Reminders to toggle on the Alarms permission.

Creating a reminder with an alarm is simple. Open the Reminders app and create a new task. Tap the info button, set a time, and toggle on the “Urgent” switch to enable the alarm.

When the alarm sounds, it will override system sounds. It works even when a Focus mode is active or your device is muted. This guarantees the alert gets your attention when it matters most.

Customizing Your Reminder Alarms

Apple offers customization for these new alarms. You can choose a distinctive blue snooze button. Alternatively, you can enable a “Complete” button to mark tasks as done instantly.

The “Complete” option streamlines your workflow. It lets you finish a task directly from the lock screen. This avoids the need to open the Reminders app for quick actions.

This update represents a significant shift in how the Reminders app functions. It blurs the line between gentle notifications and hard alerts. The change gives users more control over how they manage their time-sensitive responsibilities.

The new alarm feature fundamentally changes the Reminders app from a passive list to an active tool. These urgent alarms ensure critical tasks are never overlooked again. Apple is expected to release iOS 26.2 to the public this December.

Info at your fingertips

How is this different from a normal reminder notification?

A normal reminder is a simple banner or sound. The new alarm feature provides a persistent, full-screen alert with snooze and stop controls, just like a morning wake-up alarm. It is designed to be unmissable.

Will these alarms work if my phone is on silent?

Yes. According to reports, the urgent reminder alarms will sound even if your iPhone is set to silent mode or has a Focus mode enabled. This ensures you are always alerted for time-critical tasks.

Can I quickly mark the reminder as done from the alarm screen?

Yes, but you need to enable a setting first. Go to Settings > Apps > Reminders and toggle on “Complete for Alarm.” This replaces the snooze button with a Complete button on the alarm screen.

What happens if I snooze the alarm?

Snoozing the alarm will silence it temporarily. The reminder will then reappear as a notification a few minutes later with options to complete the task or reschedule it for a later time.

When will iOS 26.2 be released to everyone?

Apple has not announced an official date. However, based on typical beta testing cycles, the public release is anticipated for sometime in December.