How to install the iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 developer betas
The most recent presentation of Apple's WWDC event has come and gone, during which Apple introduced the developer beta of the newly renamed iOS 26 - which is accessible to everyone, non-developers included, for free. If you want to try out an early version of the new OS, we've got directions on how to install […]
The most recent presentation of Apple's WWDC event has come and gone, during which Apple introduced the developer beta of the newly renamed iOS 26 - which is accessible to everyone, non-developers included, for free. If you want to try out an early version of the new OS, we've got directions on how to install it on your iPhone or iPad.
Before we get started, a word of warning: beta software - especially early developer beta - is inherently unfinished and may contain bugs. Think carefully before installing either on any device you depend on. They also may not include all of the features that will be in the final release. Your experience may differ from others depending on the apps you use. And finally, if you do decide to install it, we suggest backing up your device's data in case things go badly.
What features come with the new OS?
Besides a new naming scheme - each update will now be named for the year it will be used - the new operating systems have a number of interesting new features, not the least of which is Liquid Glass, a shiny new (and transparent) look for the OS that may take some getting used to. There are also new windowing features for iPadOS, some new Messages u …
