Apple enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting the release of the iOS 26 public beta, and according to multiple reliable sources, the wait is almost over. At the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2025, Apple unveiled iOS 26 alongside updates for iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, watchOS, tvOS, HomePod software, and AirPods firmware. While developer betas have been available since the announcement, the public beta is expected to launch around July 23, 2025, marking a slightly later release than usual but promising an exciting glimpse into Apple’s next generation of software.
Mark Gurman, a Bloomberg journalist known for his accurate Apple reporting, confirmed in a reply to a post by developer Parker Ortolani that the iOS 26 public beta should arrive "around the 23rd" of July. This timing places the release about a week after mid-July, which is when Apple typically rolls out its public betas. For context, last year’s iOS 18 public beta launched on July 15, 2024, and the iOS 17 public beta debuted on July 12, 2023. The slight delay this year has sparked some curiosity, but insiders suggest it’s just a matter of Apple’s scheduling rather than any significant hold-up.
The public beta will not be limited to iOS 26 alone. Apple plans to release public betas for iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, HomePod software 26, and AirPods firmware simultaneously. This coordinated release allows users across the Apple ecosystem to test out the new features and improvements well ahead of the official fall launch, which will coincide with the debut of the latest iPhone lineup.
For those interested in participating in the beta testing, Apple offers the Apple Beta Software Program, which is free and open to anyone with an Apple ID. Users can sign up on Apple’s dedicated Beta Software Program website. Once enrolled, they can navigate to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates on their device to opt into the iOS 26 public beta when it becomes available. Apple strongly advises installing these betas on secondary devices rather than primary phones or computers and recommends backing up all data beforehand, as betas are prerelease software and can contain bugs or performance issues.
One of the most talked-about aspects of iOS 26 is the introduction of the “Liquid Glass” design, a sweeping aesthetic overhaul that brings a glass-inspired, more transparent, and rounded look to the interface. This redesign is the most significant visual change Apple has made in 13 years, affecting everything from the home screen to apps and settings. The design also incorporates real-life physics, reacting dynamically to user interactions like taps, swipes, and even how the device is held.
Beyond the visual refresh, iOS 26 introduces several new features that enhance daily use. The Camera app has been streamlined with a cleaner layout, adding Library and Collections tabs to reduce clutter and simplify navigation. The Phone app gains new functionality such as screen-calling, which detects spam calls, and Hold Assist, which alerts users when they are off hold and connected to an agent. Messaging and FaceTime also receive AI-powered live translation capabilities, making communication across languages smoother than ever.
Music lovers will appreciate the AutoMix feature, an AI-powered DJ that transitions songs seamlessly by matching key and tempo, providing a professional-quality listening experience. Additionally, Apple Shortcuts receives an AI makeover, expanding automation possibilities across devices.
iPadOS 26 inherits many of these features, including Liquid Glass, live translations, AutoMix, and Call Screening. A standout addition for iPad users is the new windowing system that allows resizing of web pages and apps, enabling multitasking akin to a laptop environment. This is a significant upgrade for power users who rely on their iPads for productivity.
macOS Tahoe 26 also benefits from these cross-platform enhancements and adds Live Activities from iPhone on Mac. This feature syncs activities such as recent calls and contacts between devices, creating a seamless handoff experience.
WatchOS 26 introduces Workout Buddy, an AI-powered fitness assistant that uses historical workout data to provide real-time insights and encouragement during exercise. This personalized coaching aims to make workouts more engaging and effective.
AirPods firmware updates bundled with iOS 26 bring exciting new capabilities to compatible models like AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4. Users will be able to control their device’s camera shutter via the Camera app with compatible third-party apps, and enjoy studio-quality audio for voice recordings, enhancing both photography and sound experiences.
Eligible devices for these updates span a broad range. For iOS 26, supported models include the iPhone 16 series, iPhone 15 series, iPhone 14 series, iPhone 13 series, iPhone 12 series, and iPhone SE (2nd generation and later). iPadOS 26 supports various iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad, and iPad mini models dating back several generations. macOS Tahoe 26 is compatible with MacBook Air and Pro models with Apple silicon from 2020 onward, as well as select Intel-based Macs. WatchOS 26 supports Apple Watch SE (2nd generation) through to the latest Apple Watch Ultra 2. The AirPods firmware updates apply to AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 models.
While developer betas have been accessible since WWDC, they are intended primarily for developers to test app compatibility and early features. Non-developers are cautioned against installing these early builds due to potential instability and bugs. The public beta, arriving soon, will have addressed many of these issues, making it a safer way for enthusiasts to experience the new software ahead of the official release.
In sum, Apple’s upcoming public beta release of iOS 26 and its companion operating systems promises a substantial upgrade across the company’s device lineup. With a fresh visual identity, smarter AI features, and enhanced multitasking capabilities, users have much to look forward to. The anticipated launch around July 23, 2025, means the countdown is nearly over for those eager to dive into Apple’s latest innovations.
