30-07-2025
iOS 26 beta now available: How to download, eligible iPhones, final release date
iOS 26 is finally here in its first public beta, giving iPhone users an early glimpse of Apple's latest operating system months ahead of its final release. This year, the new iPhone OS is said to be bringing one of the biggest visual and functional overhauls in iOS history. The version not only promises to transform how your iPhone looks, but also how it works by introducing a new Liquid Glass design, expanded Apple Intelligence AI features, and major improvements to core you're eager to try out the new Liquid Glass design and see everything it brings, here's a quick guide on how to download the beta, what features it includes, and when we can expect the final 26 introduces a new design for iPhoneThe main highlight of the new iOS 26 is undoubtedly the Liquid Glass interface. The new UI brings a system-wide design language that gives the iPhone a sleek, translucent aesthetic. App icons, widgets, the dock, and system elements now feature glass-like textures with realistic reflections and subtle light refractions. Additionally, Apple has added a new All Clear mode that makes app icons fully transparent, offering a cleaner, more minimalistic Home Screen.
But this update isn't just about looks. Apple has rolled out smarter features across core apps. The Camera app now has a cleaner, more intuitive interface, making it quicker to switch between modes. Messages and the Phone app have gained improved call screening, smarter hold options, and better message management. Meanwhile, Apple Intelligence is getting powerful new abilities that enhance everyday tasks and lay the groundwork for major Siri upgrades expected later in the the design refresh isn't limited to iPhones. Apple is bringing this new Liquid Glass design language across iPadOS, macOS and even watchOS, so the entire Apple ecosystem feels more consistent and to download the iOS 26 public betaSince this is still a beta version and Apple is actively testing it, the company recommends installing it only on secondary devices due to potential bugs. You should also back up all your important data first, as beta versions can sometimes crash and cause data your iPhone is backed up and ready:Join Apple's Beta Software ProgrammeOpen Safari on your iPhone and visit in with your Apple ID and enrol in the enable beta updates on your iPhone. Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta iOS 26 Public Beta from the to download and install the iOs 26, return to Settings > General > Software Update and tap Download and before you start the download, make sure your iPhone is connected to WiFi, has at least 80 per cent battery, and is backed up. The installation file can be quite large, so allow plenty of time for the 26 supported iPhonesadvertisementAs with every major release, Apple has dropped support for some older devices as the new OS requires more advanced hardware. This year, iOS 26 will not support the iPhone XR or iOS 26 public beta is available on:iPhone 11 series and newer (including iPhone 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 series)iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)When to expect the final version of iOS 26The stable version of iOS 26 is expected to roll out in September 2025, aligning with the launch of the iPhone 17 lineup. Until then, the public beta will receive regular updates as Apple collects feedback and fixes bugs.- Ends