Apple has just released the first Public Beta of iOS 26 for iPhone users, letting anyone beta test its latest software that previously was only available for developers.
It was rumoured that iOS 26 Public Beta would launch this week, and now it has.
Here’s how to download and install iOS 26 Public Beta on your iPhone:
1. Register on beta.apple.com. Then go to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates. Select “iOS 26 Public Beta” and it will refresh and show you that you can update and install it.
It’s a big update and the install size will depend on your iPhone model. Again, this is beta software so it’s best to put it on a secondary device as there may be issues (you should backup your phone before installing). Apple continues to tweak its beta versions leading up to the final release in September.
iOS 26, previewed at Apple’s WWDC, introduces a “Liquid Glass” design with translucent, rounded interfaces and new features. It will be released in September 2025 for iPhone 11 and newer.
Earlier this week, Apple released iOS 26 beta 4–check out what’s new in the videos below from zollotech and Brandon Butch:
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Going to try the beta on my iPad Air M2, but not my iPhone just yet