According to Macworld, the latest beta includes code that suggests a potential new feature enabling users to change the functionality of the side (power) button.

This follows the introduction of the customizable Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro, which lets users assign actions like turning on the flashlight, opening the camera, or activating Focus mode.

The customizable side button, still in early testing, would let users assign new actions to the button, such as opening apps or triggering specific functions, instead of just locking the iPhone, opening Apple Wallet, or activating Siri.

This customization could be especially important in light of recent regulatory changes in the European Union, where increased focus on user choice and interoperability has influenced Apple’s design decisions.

While the side button customization feature isn’t functional yet in iOS 26.2 beta 1, internal references suggest it could become a fully realized feature soon.

Other updates in the beta include a Liquid Glass slider for more customizable lock screen aesthetics, a revamped Sleep Score on the Apple Watch, and AirPods Live Translation in the EU.

Additionally, Apple has improved the Reminders app, allowing users to set an alarm for when a reminder is due, updated the Podcasts app, and enhanced the Passwords management system for websites.

If approved and refined in future versions, the customizable side button could mark a significant step toward more personalized user experiences within Apple’s ecosystem.