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:
- 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.
My favorite iPhone accessories:
- Anker Power Bank with built-in USB-C Cable
- Charge your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods at the same time
- Bring wireless CarPlay to any car
- Anker MagSafe Power Bank
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