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Apple is set to release the iOS 26 public beta this week. Explore its key features, expected launch date, and how to install it on your iPhone.
If you’ve been waiting to try out iOS 26 without using a developer account, this might be your week. Multiple leaks and trusted sources, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, have hinted that Apple is just days away from releasing the iOS 26 public beta.
The fourth developer beta for iOS 26 is expected to roll out first, likely on Tuesday, July 22. The public beta is expected to follow right after, possibly on Wednesday, July 23. This timeline is based on a private leaker with a strong track record of accurately revealing beta build numbers just a day before the official release. This time, they shared the following:
The build number for macOS 26 beta 4 even appeared as a public beta earlier today by mistake, which strongly suggests that the public release is near.
While Apple has already promised that the public betas would go live sometime in July, this is the clearest sign yet that it is happening this week. Gurman also echoed this in his newsletter, saying:
“All indications are that iOS 26 should go into the public beta phase this coming week.”
If you haven’t been keeping up, iOS 26 is shaping up to be one of the biggest updates in years, especially from a visual standpoint. It introduces a brand-new Liquid Glass design that adds a frosted, transparent look to your Home Screen, Lock Screen, and system menus. Some early testers have pointed out readability issues, but Apple is actively working on improvements.
Other features include:
Check out our full guide to explore all the iOS 26 features coming to your iPhone.
When the public beta goes live, you’ll be able to install it for free by joining the Apple Beta Software Program. Just sign in with your Apple ID and follow the steps for your device.
However, before you dive in, make sure to back up your iPhone. Public betas are usually more stable than developer betas, but they can still cause app crashes, data loss, or battery drain. If you use your iPhone for work or school, you should especially think twice before installing it on your main device.
Apple is also planning to release a public beta for its next AirPods firmware update, a first for regular users. And while you can expect public betas for iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, and more, visionOS 26 will not receive a public beta, as confirmed on Apple’s official beta site.
With the iOS 26 public beta likely just hours away, now is a good time to decide whether you want to explore the new features early or wait for the final version this fall.