The iOS 26 public beta is now available, giving iPhone users everywhere the option to try Apple’s latest and greatest features. This year, you can check out Liquid Glass, new Messages features, and more.
Here’s how to install the iOS 26 public beta on your iPhone (for free!)…
What iPhones are supported by iOS 26?
Here’s the full list of iPhones that are supported by iOS 26:
Here are the devices compatible with iOS 26:
iPhone 16e
iPhone 16
iPhone 16 Plus
iPhone 16 Pro
iPhone 16 Pro Max
iPhone 15
iPhone 15 Plus
iPhone 15 Pro
iPhone 15 Pro Max
iPhone 14
iPhone 14 Plus
iPhone 14 Pro
iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 13
iPhone 13 mini
iPhone 13 Pro
iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12
iPhone 12 mini
iPhone 12 Pro
iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11
iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
How to install the iOS 26 beta
Installing the iOS 26 beta is incredibly easy and straightforward. Just follow these steps:
Go to Apple’s Beta Software Program website and sign up using your Apple Account information. Go to the Settings app on your iPhone, tap General, then tap Software Update. Tap the “Beta Updates” option and choose “iOS 26 Public Beta.”
Give it a few minutes and you should see the option to download and install the iOS 26 public beta on your iPhone.
Should you install the iOS 26 public beta?
The answer to this question depends largely on your personal tolerance for bugs. In its current form, the iOS 26 beta is relatively stable. There aren’t any show stopping problems.
That’s not to say, however, that things are perfect.
You’ll undoubtedly run into apps crashing, bizarre and annoying glitches, and your battery life might be a little worse than usual.
Here’s what Apple says about installing the iOS 26 beta:
Beta software may contain errors or inaccuracies and may not function as well as commercially released software. We encourage you to submit feedback when you encounter these issues. If you need further assistance, please note that you must restore to previously-released software prior to contacting AppleCare.
If you’re willing to make those compromises in exchange for trying the latest and greatest iPhone features, the the iOS 26 public beta is for you.
For more details on everything new in iOS 26, be sure to check out our dedicated hands-on story.
Are you installing the iOS 26 public beta? What features are you most excited to try? Let us know down in the comments.
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