Kerry Wan

Apple announced some significant changes to its iPhone operating system with iOS 26 during WWDC 2025. Instead of launching iOS 19 consecutively to the current iOS 18, Apple rebranded its OS versions to match the year when users will use them the most. In this case, iOS 26 will launch for general availability in the fall, though most feature updates will roll out through 2026.

But even if the general release of iOS 26 is still a couple of months away, you can officially download the public beta version right now. Apple released the developer beta of iOS 26 last month, so the company's already refined and tweaked some of the biggest bugs in the new operating system. This makes iOS 26 ready to launch into its public beta phase. 

Also: Five 'new' iOS 26 features that feel familiar (I've been using them on Android for years)

Before installing any beta software versions, be sure to back up your device, avoid using your primary iPhone, and remember that pre-release software can contain bugs and glitches.

How to install the iOS 26 public beta version

Sabrina Ortiz

What you need:A compatible iPhone running iOS 16.5 or later. Since not all iPhones support iOS 26, you'll also need a model newer than iPhone 11.

1. Access General in your iPhone Settings

Go to your iPhone's Settings and select General.

Also: Your iPhone is getting a big upgrade. 10 best features I can't wait to use in iOS 26

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2. Go to Software Update in Settings

Within General, tap on Software Update. Your iPhone's Software Updates feature must be updated to automatically receive beta updates and beta versions of iOS. 

Show more Screenshot: Maria Diaz／

3. Enable Beta Updates

Go to Beta Updates to enable it and select the iOS version you'd like to access. This setting is turned off by default on iPhones.

Show more Screenshot: Maria Diaz

4. Select iOS 26 Public Beta

Select iOS 26 Public Beta to begin receiving automatic software updates to the latest beta version of iOS 26. 

Once you do this, return to the previous page. If an update is available now, your iPhone will prompt you to download and install it. 

Show more Screenshot: Maria Diaz

FAQs

When will iOS 26 be released?

The iOS 26 public beta is available now. The developer beta was released during WWDC in June 2025. If Apple follows its usual cadence, the final, general release of iOS 26 should arrive in September 2025.

How to download the iOS 26 developer beta?

To download the iOS 26 developer beta version, navigate to your settings to install the iOS 26 developer beta if your device runs iOS 16.5 and is used with an Apple ID enrolled in the Apple Developer Program:

1. Go to your iPhone Settings
2. Tap on General
3. Select Software Update
4. Go to Beta Updates
5. Choose the iOS 26 Developer Beta

If you can't see this option, go to your Settings, select Privacy & Security, and enable Developer Mode.

If you aren't already a member of the Apple Developer Program, you can sign up to become one in the app. An annual membership costs$99, but you don't need one to try the developer beta.

Which iPhones are compatible with iOS 26?

Apple removed the iPhone XR and XS from its list of supported devices with iOS 26, so any iPhone 11 or newer is compatible with the new operating system, including the iPhone SE.

Also: Every iPhone model that can be updated to iOS 26 (and which ones don't support it)

What to do before installing the iOS 26 public beta?

You can always join the Apple Beta program to get the latest beta versions of iOS. Before you download a beta version of an operating system, keep these housekeeping items in mind:

• Back up your device and personal information.
• Don't download beta software, which will likely have bugs and glitches, on your everyday iPhone.
• Beta versions are released so you can test new features and share feedback to improve iOS.

How to submit beta feedback to Apple

The iOS 26 public beta comes with its own built-in Feedback Assistant app, which you can open from the Home screen. If you encounter something that doesn't work, or you have feedback on any part of the new OS, you can communicate directly with Apple via that app.   

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Apple

The best iOS 26 features that will make updating your iPhone worthwhileYour Apple Watch is getting a major upgrade. Here are the best features in WatchOS 26What is Liquid Glass? Here's everything we know about Apple's major UI overhaul at WWDCEvery iPhone model compatible with Apple's iOS 26 (and which ones aren't)

• The best iOS 26 features that will make updating your iPhone worthwhile
• Your Apple Watch is getting a major upgrade. Here are the best features in WatchOS 26
• What is Liquid Glass? Here's everything we know about Apple's major UI overhaul at WWDC
• Every iPhone model compatible with Apple's iOS 26 (and which ones aren't)