Apple releases iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 beta updates to developers

Apple Unveils Developer Access to iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 Beta 1 for Compatible Devices

Apple has just unveiled the first developer beta for its upcoming iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, packed with exciting new features and design enhancements. These betas were introduced shortly after the company’s keynote, and developers can dive into the updates immediately on their compatible iPhones or iPads.

Wondering how to get your hands on these updates? If you’re a developer, you can download and install the latest beta by linking your Apple ID to your Developer Account. This connection allows the update to be accessible over the air. Simply go to the Settings app on your device, navigate to General > Software Update > Beta Updates, and follow the instructions to install the beta.

These updates are substantial, introducing a stunning glass-like interface inspired by visionOS. Among the highlights are the new Games app and advanced on-device APIs for developers, opening avenues to work with large language models.

It’s important to note that these beta builds are specifically for developers and are intended for testing. If you’re planning to try out iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, it’s wise to install them on a secondary device. The initial build may contain numerous bugs that can affect regular functionality. Additional beta updates have also been released, and we’ll cover those in detail soon. Stay tuned!