Apple has officially rolled out the iOS 26 Public Beta Update, giving iPhone users an early look at all the exciting new features coming later this year. Whether you’re a long-time Apple user or someone who loves testing new tech before the rest of the world, the iOS 26 beta is packed with powerful upgrades, design changes, and smarter AI tools.
In this article, we’ll explore what’s new in iOS 26, which iPhones support it, and how you can install the public beta right now.
What is the iOS 26 Public Beta?
The public beta is a free early access version of iOS 26, available to all iPhone users who enroll in Apple’s beta testing program. Unlike the developer beta, the public beta is slightly more stable and is designed for general users who want to experience the latest features ahead of the official release.
This update introduces several major improvements in privacy, personalization, AI integration, and cross-device connectivity. Apple has also focused on performance and battery life optimization across older and newer iPhone models.
Which iPhones Support iOS 26?
If you have an iPhone that runs iOS 17 or iOS 18, chances are good that you’ll be able to install iOS 26. The public beta supports the following devices:
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iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
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iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
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iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
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iPhone 12 series
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iPhone 11 series
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iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
Make sure your iPhone has enough storage and is charged at least 50 percent before attempting the installation.
Top New Features in iOS 26
The iOS 26 Public Beta brings a wave of updates that improve the user experience and introduce AI-powered features. Here’s a look at the most exciting changes:
1. Smart Reply Everywhere
Apple’s AI engine now powers smart reply suggestions across all messaging apps, not just iMessage. Whether you’re using WhatsApp, Instagram, or Mail, you’ll see quick, intelligent response options based on the context of the conversation.
2. Enhanced Lock Screen Widgets
The lock screen is now more customizable. You can add dynamic widgets, real-time scores, calendar events, or smart home controls that update live without unlocking your phone.
3. AI Summarizer in Safari
Safari now includes a built-in AI tool that summarizes web pages, articles, and PDFs. This is perfect for students, researchers, or anyone who needs to digest long content quickly.
4. Adaptive Battery Mode
This new feature learns your usage patterns and adjusts background activity accordingly. The result is extended battery life without sacrificing performance.
5. Live Wallpapers with Weather Sync
iOS 26 introduces stunning animated wallpapers that change based on real-time weather conditions at your location—rain, snow, sunshine, or clouds.
6. App Privacy Shield
You now get weekly privacy reports showing how often apps access your camera, microphone, photos, and location. You can revoke permissions instantly with one tap.
7. Universal Clipboard History
Clipboard memory now stores your recent copied texts and images across all Apple devices logged into the same iCloud account. You can access and paste them anytime, even from a Mac or iPad.
8. Voice Isolation for All Apps
Previously limited to FaceTime, voice isolation is now available system-wide—improving call quality even in third-party apps like Zoom, Teams, and Google Meet.
How to Install the iOS 26 Public Beta
Installing the beta is simple and only takes a few minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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On your iPhone, open Safari and go to Apple’s Beta Software Program website
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Sign in using your Apple ID
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Enroll your iPhone and accept the agreement
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Go to Settings → General → Software Update
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Tap on Beta Updates and select iOS 26 Public Beta
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The update will appear. Tap Download and Install
Once your phone restarts, you’ll be running the latest iOS 26 public beta version.
Should You Install the Beta?
While public betas are more stable than developer versions, they can still have bugs and compatibility issues. Here are a few things to consider before installing:
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Some apps may crash or behave unexpectedly
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Battery life may be slightly inconsistent during early beta stages
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Not recommended for your primary or work device unless you are okay with minor glitches
That said, if you’re tech-savvy and want to experience the latest features before the full release, this is a great opportunity.
How to Report Bugs or Feedback
Apple encourages beta users to report bugs through the Feedback Assistant app, which is automatically installed when you install the beta. You can use this app to:
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Report crashes or app issues
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Suggest improvements
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Share performance problems or UI glitches
Your feedback helps Apple refine iOS 26 before the final release in September.
When Will iOS 26 Launch Officially?
The public beta is typically available for two months before the final release. Based on past trends, the stable version of iOS 26 will roll out in September 2025, likely alongside the new iPhone launch.
At that time, everyone will be able to upgrade their devices through the regular software update option, without enrolling in the beta program.