The iOS 26 public beta is now available! This is your chance to try Apple’s newest features before the full version is officially released. The update brings fresh tools and improvements to make your iPhone or iPad work even better.
Keep in mind: since it’s a beta version, it might have bugs or affect your battery life. To avoid issues, be sure to back up your device and follow the step-by-step install guide in the iReviews video below.
Why You Should Try the iOS 26 Public Beta
The iOS 26 public beta gives you early access to Apple’s latest updates before the official release. It’s a great way to experience new features and improvements firsthand.
What’s New in iOS 26:
- Smarter, Cleaner Interface: Easier navigation with a fresh and more user-friendly design.
- Better Battery Life: Improved power management helps your device last longer throughout the day.
- Stronger Cloud Syncing: Enjoy smoother syncing across all your Apple devices for a connected experience.
Unlike developer betas, which are mainly for testing and can be buggy, the public beta is more stable and built for everyday users. Still, it’s not perfect — you might run into occasional bugs, app issues, or slower performance.
If you’re curious and ready to try out the latest features (and don’t mind a few hiccups), installing the iOS 26 public beta is a great way to get a head start.
Get Your Device Ready for the iOS 26 Public Beta
Before you install the iOS 26 public beta, it’s important to prepare your device to avoid issues and protect your data. Here’s a quick checklist to follow:
1. Back Up Your Data:
Before installing any beta software, always create a full backup of your device. You can back up your data using:
- iCloud: Go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup and tap “Back Up Now”.
- Computer (Mac or PC): Use Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows) to back up your iPhone locally.
This ensures that if anything goes wrong during the update, you can restore your device without losing any important information.
2. Free Up Storage Space
The iOS 26 public beta requires a good amount of storage to install—at least 20 GB of free space is recommended.
To check your storage:
- Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage
- Delete unused apps, old photos, or large files to clear space if needed.
3. Charge Your Device
Make sure your device is at least 50% charged or keep it plugged in during the update process. This will prevent the installation from being interrupted due to low battery.
By following these steps—backing up your data, freeing up storage, and charging your device—you’ll reduce the risk of installation errors or bugs. Remember, beta software isn’t perfect, but with proper prep, you can enjoy the newest iOS 26 features with peace of mind.
How to Install iOS 26 Public Beta on Your iPhone
On your iPhone or iPad, go to the Settings app.
Tap on “Beta Updates”, then select “iOS 26 Public Beta” to enrol your device.
Go back to the Software Update screen and refresh the page.
Tap “Download and Install” when the iOS 26 beta appears.
The installation process is mostly automatic. After the iOS 26 beta is downloaded, your device will restart and install the update on its own. Once it reboots, you’ll be able to explore all the new features and enhancements that come with iOS 26.
Key Considerations Before Using the iOS 26 Public Beta
While the iOS 26 public beta is more stable than the developer version, it’s still in development. As a beta tester, it’s important to know what to expect so you can decide if it’s the right choice for your device.
Battery Performance May Vary:
You might notice increased battery drain at first as the system adjusts to the new software. This is common with beta versions.
Some Apps May Not Work Properly:
Not all third-party apps are immediately compatible with iOS 26. You may experience crashes or missing features in apps that haven’t been updated for the new OS. Be sure to check the App Store for updates regularly to resolve any issues.
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Expect Frequent Beta Updates:
Apple often releases regular beta updates to fix bugs and improve performance.
To stay up to date, go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any new versions as they appear.
If you’re already running the iOS 26 developer beta, you do not need to install the public beta. They are currently on the same build version (Developer Beta 3).
Maximizing Your Experience with the iOS 26 Public Beta
The iOS 26 public beta gives you early access to Apple’s latest innovations—well before the official release. By backing up your data, clearing enough storage, and following the correct steps, you can enjoy a smooth installation and explore the new features with confidence.
While you might face some minor issues—like battery drain or app compatibility—these are common in beta versions. Staying updated and proactive will help you avoid most problems.
Don’t forget to use the Feedback app to report bugs or share your thoughts. Your input helps Apple improve the software before the final version goes live.
With the right preparation and mindset, the iOS 26 public beta offers a fun and rewarding preview of what’s next for Apple’s mobile experience.
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