When Will iOS 26 Public Beta Be Released?

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If you’ve been refreshing your iPhone every 20 minutes, praying the iOS 26 public beta will magically appear in Software Update, you’re not alone. Apple fans and curious tinkerers alike have been anxiously awaiting their shot at Apple’s next big update. So, when will the iOS 26 public beta be released?

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman (basically the psychic of Apple predictions), we’re looking at Wednesday, July 23, 2025. That date lines up with Apple’s usual public beta schedule, and Gurman casually confirmed it on X (formerly Twitter), saying the release is set for “around the 23rd.”

around the 23rd
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) July 15, 2025

What Is the iOS Public Beta Anyway?

The iOS public beta is Apple’s way of saying, “Here, try this slightly broken but exciting new thing before everyone else.” It’s a more stable version than the early developer builds, but still comes with a few bugs and quirks. You get to test new features and designs while also playing part-time bug reporter.

What to Expect in iOS 26

This year’s update brings a lot of shiny new toys. Most notably: the new Liquid Glass design. Think translucent effects, animated transitions, and a UI that’s trying really hard to impress you. Some other standout features include:

Messages upgrades: Expect polls in group chats, animated backgrounds, improved RCS support, and encryption so tight even your nosy sibling can’t peek.
Apple Music AutoMix: Because someone at Apple decided you needed a DJ in your pocket.
Revamped Camera app: Cleaner interface, separated modes, and descriptions that might actually help you use all those fancy settings.

And yes, a few apps are getting complete redesigns (hello, Phone app). It feels like Apple is finally giving some of these legacy apps the spa day they desperately needed.

What About Other Platforms?

The public beta release of iOS 26 won’t be alone. iPadOS 26, macOS 15, tvOS 26, watchOS 11, and HomePod Software 18 are all expected to drop their own betas around the same time. If you were hoping to try visionOS 2 though, you’re out of luck. No public beta for that one.

How to Prepare for the iOS 26 Public Beta

Ready to get ready? Here’s what to do:

Back it up: Save your data using iCloud or a local backup. Beta software can be weird.
Join the Apple Beta Software Program: Head over to beta.apple.com and enroll your device.
Install the profile: Apple will walk you through the steps. It’s fairly painless.
Download and update: Go to Settings > General > Software Update and wait for July 23 to roll around.

Final Thoughts

So, when will iOS 26 public beta be released? Most signs point to July 23, 2025. Unless Apple decides to pull a fast one, that’s your go-date for playing with all the new features before the rest of the world gets their hands on them.

If you’re brave, backed-up, and a little bored, jump in. Just don’t install it on your main phone if you’re not ready to deal with weird battery issues or random app crashes. It is a beta, after all.

Stay tuned!

Tony Simons

Tony has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix and over 14 years of writing experience between multiple publications in the tech, photography, lifestyle, and deal industries.