Apple just unveiled iOS 26 beta during WWDC 2025, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most transformative iPhone updates in years. With a stunning new Liquid Glass UI, Apple Intelligence (AI-powered features), and deeper cross-device integration, iOS 26 brings a fresh feel and smarter tools to iPhones.
In this post, we’ll cover all the major changes, the expected release schedule, supported devices, and how you can get the beta early.
What’s New in iOS 26 Beta?
1. Liquid Glass UI: A Bold New Design
Apple is introducing its biggest visual overhaul since iOS 7 with the Liquid Glass UI, a dynamic, translucent interface that reacts to motion and light.
Highlights:
- Translucent panels with depth and light reflections
- Motion-sensitive icons and buttons
- Unified UI design across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS
- Cleaner animations and gesture-friendly controls
2. Apple Intelligence: Privacy-Focused AI Tools
The iOS 26 introduces Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI features that work locally on your device for faster, more private performance.
Key Features:
- Live Translation: Real-time translation across text, FaceTime, and calls
- Genmoji: Generate personalized emojis from text descriptions
- Smart Summaries: Auto-summarize notifications, notes, or messages
- Image Playground: Create fun AI images within Messages or other apps
- Contextual Siri (coming later): Improved understanding and follow-up queries
3. Updated Native Apps
Several built-in apps are getting meaningful upgrades in iOS 26 beta:
- Phone App: New Hold Assist feature stays on hold for you
- Messages App: Custom chat backgrounds, polls in group chats, improved tapbacks
- Photos: AI-enhanced photo sorting and search
- Maps: “Visited Places” timeline feature
- Reminders & Notes: Smart tagging and summary cards
Supported Devices for iOS 26 Beta
Apple has maintained wide support for newer iPhones while retiring a few older models. Here’s the list of supported devices:
iPhones Compatible with iOS 26 Beta:
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone SE (2nd gen and later)
iOS 26 Beta Release Schedule
Here’s a breakdown of the iOS 26 beta timeline:
| Version | Release Date |
|---|---|
| Developer Beta | June 10, 2025 (available now) |
| Public Beta | July 2025 |
| Official Release | Expected September 2025 |
To access the public beta once released, you can enroll in the Apple Beta Software Program.
How to Install the iOS 26 Beta
Step-by-step for Developer Beta:
- Sign in to your Apple Developer account
- Install the developer profile
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Tap “Download and Install” under iOS 26 Beta
Warning: Beta software may be unstable. Back up your device before installing.
FAQs About iOS 26 Beta
1. Is iOS 26 beta safe to install?
The beta is meant for developers and testers. It may contain bugs. Install only on secondary devices or with full backups.
2. Can I downgrade from iOS 26 beta?
Yes, you can downgrade using iTunes or Finder by restoring an archived backup of iOS 17/iOS 25.
3. What’s the difference between developer and public beta?
Developer beta is released earlier and is often less stable. Public beta is more refined and safer for general use.
4. Will iOS 26 beta affect my battery life?
Yes, early beta builds typically reduce battery performance due to debugging and background analytics.
5. Will all Apple Intelligence features work on my iPhone?
Some AI features may be exclusive to A17 chip models or later due to processing requirements.
Also Read: iPhone 17 Leaks and Rumors: New Design, Specs, and Expected Launch
