Apple’s iOS 26 Beta 2 just introduced something surprisingly nostalgic: a new ringtone option that gives users an alternative to the familiar “Reflection” sound that’s been iPhone’s default since iOS 17. Hidden away as “Alt 1,” this addition represents Apple’s first major ringtone update in years—and it’s already sparking debate about whether it’s an upgrade or just unnecessary change.
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The Quiet Ringtone Revolution
The second beta of iOS 26 includes a new ringtone that’s an alternative to the classic “Reflection” ringtone that Apple uses as a default on iPhones. Apple didn’t give the new ringtone a special name, and it’s just listed as “Alt 1” as an option if you tap into Reflection.
You can find this hidden gem by navigating to Settings > Sounds and Haptics > Ringtone > Reflection. The classic Reflection ringtone remains the default, so you’ll need to manually switch if you prefer the new sound.
Why This Matters More Than You Think
| Ringtone Era | Default Sound | Years Active | Recognition Factor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original iPhone (2007-2016) | Marimba | 9 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| iOS 17-Present | Reflection | 2+ years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| iOS 26 | Alt 1 (Optional) | New | ⭐⭐ |
Apple’s ringtone choices have always been cultural touchstones. The iconic “Marimba” was the default ringtone for decades and is still closely associated with iPhones, while “Reflection” became the default ringtone of the iPhone X and is still commonly known as the signature iPhone sound.
The Discovery Timeline
This isn’t completely new territory for Apple watchers. We first found the ringtone in the iOS 26 beta 1 code, but it wasn’t enabled until now. Beta testers and code miners have been tracking this addition since the initial developer release.
The discovery was made independently by a Twitter/X user going by the handle @8810cfw and Macworld’s Filipe Esposito, and later confirmed by the MacRumors analyst Aaron Perris.
What Makes This Ringtone Special
Unlike previous major ringtone updates that completely replaced defaults, Apple’s taking a more conservative approach with “Alt 1.” It’s positioned as a variation rather than a replacement, suggesting the company learned from past user complaints about sudden audio changes.
The ringtone represents Apple’s attempt to refresh the iPhone experience without alienating users who’ve grown attached to familiar sounds. It’s a subtle nod to personalization while maintaining brand consistency.
The Broader Context: Apple’s Audio Identity
Apple has always been meticulous about its audio identity. The company has never publicly explained who created the marimba — one of 25 original ringtone options included on the iPhone — or why it was selected as the device’s default sound. Even nine years after the original iPhone’s debut, Apple remained secretive about these creative decisions.
This new ringtone continues that tradition of carefully curated audio experiences, designed to be instantly recognizable yet not intrusive in daily life.
What Users Can Expect
The “Alt 1” ringtone will be available to all iOS 26 users when the update launches this fall. Early beta testers describe it as a modern take on classic iPhone sounds—familiar enough to feel Apple-esque but distinct enough to offer genuine choice.
For users tired of hearing the same “Reflection” ringtone in every public space, this provides a welcome alternative without requiring third-party purchases or custom downloads.
The Bottom Line: iOS 26’s new ringtone might seem like a minor update, but it represents Apple’s commitment to refining even the smallest details of the iPhone experience. Whether “Alt 1” becomes as iconic as “Marimba” or “Reflection” remains to be seen, but it’s nice to finally have options again.
Stay tuned to our iOS coverage for more iOS 26 beta discoveries and check out our iPhone tips for customization guides when the update goes live.
