As is tradition, Apple released beta versions of its new operating systems to developers on the first day of WWDC on June 9. Beta 1 is for developers only–the public beta will begin in July, probably after two or three developer-only betas.
The first beta release of iOS 26 has everything Apple demonstrated in its WWDC keynote: Liquid Glass, the new Phone app and features, the new Camera and Photos experience, and more.
There are plenty of bugs and unrefined areas, as you would expect with the first beta release of a major new operating system update. Not everything is working as it should, and it is not advised to run this version of the OS unless you’re a developer or have a high tolerance for buggy or unoptimized software.
You can read all about all the new features in our iOS 26 superguide and find out the latest information about the iOS beta including when it will launch and how to install it in a separate story.
Update June 23: Apple has released iOS 26 beta 2. This is still a developers-only release. The public beta is scheduled to start in July, likely after one or two more developer-only beta releases.
What’s new in the latest beta release
Here’s what’s new in the second beta of iOS 26:
- It appears to have added something called a “Recovery Assistant.” It’s a mode meant to try to find and fix problems with your iPhone if it won’t start up normally. Think of it as the iPhone equivalent of the Mac Recovery Mode.
- The second beta also makes that previously hidden new ringtone available as “Reflection Alt 1.”
- The Control Center has been tweaked to further blur the background and make the buttons a little more opaque, so it’s all easier to read.
- There is a new Apple Music widget focused on live radio
- The order-tracking feature in Apple Wallet is now available.
iOS 26: How to install the public beta
The iOS 26 public beta test is expected to begin in July, but you can sign up now so you’re ready for it.
- Click Sign Up on the Apple Beta page and register with your Apple ID.
- Log in to the Beta Software Program.
- Click Enroll your iOS device.
- Open the Settings app, tap General, then Software Update.
- In the Beta Updates section, select the iOS Public Beta.
It may take a few moments after registering for the beta option to appear in Software Update.
iOS 26: How to install the developer beta
You’ll need to be registered as an Apple developer, but a free developer account will do. You can get one via Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Here’s how to do it via the Apple Developer app:
- Download the Apple Developer App from the App Store.
- Open the app.
- Tap on Account.
- Sign in using your usual Apple ID.
Find out everything you need to know about iOS 18 in our iOS 26 superguide.
