Apple releases first iOS 26 public beta: How to download the latest update?

Apple has just launched the first public beta of iOS 26, following its announcement during the WWDC 2025 event. This exciting update introduces a stunning visual design feature known as 'Liquid Glass,' along with numerous enhancements in Apple Intelligence and other improvements. While the developer beta was released shortly after the keynote, public betas are typically available in July, allowing Apple to resolve initial issues. Just this week, the fourth developer beta for iPad and iPhone was also made available. Developer betas cater primarily to app developers and tech-savvy users, offering them a chance to test their applications before the official release. In contrast, public betas are designed for a broader audience, enabling users to experience pre-release versions of iOS while providing valuable feedback about potential bugs. To download the iOS 26 public beta, users should visit the Apple Beta Software Program website and sign up. After entering their Apple ID and completing the prompts, they can head to their iPhone's Settings app. By tapping on the “General” section and selecting “Software Update,” they will see the option to install the iOS 26 Public Beta. This version brings significant updates to the Camera, Photos, and Safari applications. The Camera app now boasts a sleeker layout, while the Photos app organizes your main library and collections into distinct tabs. Safari now allows web pages to occupy the full screen, and apps such as Apple Music and News feature floating tab bars that can be hidden or revealed as you scroll. iOS 26 also leverages Apple’s on-device intelligence to enhance user experience while prioritizing data privacy. New live translation capabilities in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone translate spoken and written language instantly, without transmitting data to the cloud. Users can utilize tools like Visual Intelligence to interact with their screens, search for products, obtain answers via ChatGPT, or even add calendar events just by looking at them. Additionally, users can express their creativity with features like Genmoji (custom emojis) and Image Playground, which allow for the creation of fun images using simple words or emojis.