Apple has rolled out the public beta version of iOS 26, allowing iPhone users to get an early look at the upcoming software before its official launch. As anticipated, iOS 26 introduces a brand-new design style called Liquid Glass, enhancing the visual appeal of the interface. Key apps like Safari and Camera have received noticeable upgrades, along with the addition of several AI-driven “Apple Intelligence” tools. The public beta version offers a smoother and more reliable experience compared to earlier developer previews, giving users a solid preview of the features arriving with the final release later this year.
iOS 26 features:
A major highlight of the iOS 26 update is the comeback of AI-powered news summaries in the News app—a feature that was earlier suspended due to concerns over reliability. Additionally, users will notice a refreshed look across several apps like Photos, Weather, and Apple Music, which now showcase a new “Liquid Glass” aesthetic that introduces subtle transparency and layered visual effects.
Steps to install the iOS 26 public beta:
To try out the iOS 26 public beta, head over to the Apple Beta Software Program website and enroll.
Select “Sign Up” and log in using your Apple ID.
Follow the on-screen instructions to register your device as a beta tester.
Once you’ve signed up:
Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
Go to General > Software Update.
The iOS 26 Public Beta option should now appear—tap Download and Install to get started.
The following models will not receive the iOS 26 update:
iPhone Xs
iPhone Xs Max
iPhone XR
List of iPhones Compatible with iOS 26
These iPhone models are eligible to run iOS 26:
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd gen)
iPhone 16e
iPhones That Support Apple Intelligence in iOS 26:
Only a few models are equipped to take advantage of Apple’s new on-device intelligence features:
iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
All iPhone 16 models, including the standard, Plus, Pro, Pro Max, and 16e
