Everything you need to know about the iOS 26 public beta: date, new features, and how to install it.

Last update: 18/07/2025

  • Apple plans to release the public beta of iOS 26 around July 23.
  • The main new feature is the Liquid Glass redesign, which has generated controversy and could be behind the delay.
  • The public beta is more stable than the developer beta, but it still presents risks and is not recommended for installation on your primary device.
  • Only iPhone 11 or later models will be able to test the iOS 26 public beta.
iOS26 Release

La iOS 26 public beta is generating more excitement than ever among iPhone users, after Apple announced that its arrival would be in July. However, the usual release schedule seems to have been disrupted this year, and the brand's fan community is waiting eagerly awaiting the chance to try out all the new features of the new system before its final launch in September.

This The slight delay compared to previous years has caused some surprise., especially since Apple only promised a July release and didn't give a specific date. Still, The experience of other years suggested that the public beta would be available in the middle of the month., which hasn't happened until now. The atmosphere is marked by curiosity and also a touch of impatience on forums and social media.

Release date: next week, barring any surprises

iPhone screen with iOS 26 public beta

The latest information indicates that the iOS 26 public beta could launch around July 23This information was provided by Mark Gurman, one of the most reputable journalists on Apple matters, who claims that the company has decided to take an extra week off the traditional schedule. Although this isn't technically a delay, for those who have been waiting for these updates for years, This means breaking with the custom of seeing the public beta in the first half of July..

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Traditionally, The public beta release window coincides with a one-week separation from the third developer betaHowever, this year the synchronization has been lost, and the community is questioning the reasons for this change, especially considering that, according to those who have tested previous versions, iOS 26 is already a fairly polished system. Therefore, Wednesday of next week is shaping up to be the key moment for those who want to get a head start and try out the preview version.

Liquid Glass: redesign and controversy in the air

liquid glass

One of the most discussed points about this edition of iOS is the new Liquid Glass design, which seeks to give a fresh look to the interface, using transparency effects and a more modern look. However, in the third developer beta, changes were introduced that have raised some controversy: Apple opted to reduce the level of transparency in some elements such as navigation bars, something that has divided the community between those who see an improvement in accessibility and those who believe that part of the essence shown during the presentation has been lost.

Two theories predominate as to the reason for the delayOn the one hand, there's speculation that user feedback has motivated Apple to further refine the Liquid Glass design before opening it to the general public, which would justify this additional week. On the other hand, there's a possibility that the adjustment was planned from the beginning as a necessary technical pause to refine the system's internal workings.

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What can we expect from the iOS 26 public beta?

apple intelligence

Although the public beta is generally more stable than the developer version, It is still software in the testing phaseThis leads to potential problems: applications that don't work properly, higher battery consumption, or unforeseen bugs that affect the user experience. Additionally, installing the beta on the primary iPhone can complicate a potential return to the stable version, with the risk of losing data from apps like WhatsApp or generating incompatibilities if other betas, such as watchOS 26, have been installed on the paired Apple Watch.

By participating in the test, you can have early access to new features and functionality, such as Liquid Glass visual effects or improvements linked to Apple IntelligenceThis is attractive for those who want to experience Apple's latest innovations before they arrive in the final version.

How to install the iOS 26 public beta step by step

Apple Beta Software Program

The first step is enroll in the Apple Beta Software Program from the official website using the Apple ID. This procedure is open to any user, even before the beta is available. Once registered, just go to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates on the iPhone and select IOS 26 Public BetaIt's recommended to back up your phone before updating to avoid possible data loss.

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It should be noted that not all iPhone models will be compatible. With this version, Apple has confirmed that only iPhone 11 or later users will be able to install iOS 26, meaning devices like the iPhone XR, XS, or XS Max are no longer on the official support list.

Advantages and warnings for those who dare

Try the latest iOS features before the final release It's a privilege for the most restless, and for Apple it's a valuable source of real information about potential errors, thanks to user feedback. However, it should be noted that These versions are less polished and there may be failures, especially in the autonomy and overall stability of the system, especially in the first few days after installation.

If you decide to install the public beta on an iPhone that you normally use, It is recommended to do so with caution and be prepared to restore the device if any serious problems arise. Another option is reserve the installation for a secondary device, thus minimizing risks to important data and information.

Considering the background and current information, everything indicates that the The wait for the iOS 26 public beta is almost over.In a matter of days, those who wish to explore Apple's revamped system firsthand will be able to do so with early, direct access to all the new features that will be arriving in successive updates leading up to the official September launch.

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