Apple has released the public beta preview of iOS 26, the next version of its iPhone operating system. Available to iPhone users with recent models, this beta allows the public to experience and test the software before its official launch later this year.
To participate, users must enroll through Apple’s website, then navigate to their device’s settings under General > Software Updates > Beta Updates. This early access helps Apple gather feedback to refine the software ahead of the final release.
iOS 26 brings one of the most significant interface overhauls since the 2013 introduction of iOS 7’s flat design. The new design, dubbed “Liquid Glass,” transforms the iPhone’s familiar buttons and menus into translucent, animated elements that give the impression of flowing glass. This fresh visual style aims to create a more fluid and immersive user experience.
Apple is not only updating the iPhone interface but has extended the new “Liquid Glass” design to its iPads, Mac computers, and Apple Watch operating systems, unifying the look across its ecosystem.
Beyond the visual updates, iOS 26 includes enhancements to the Phone app by consolidating recent calls and voicemails onto a single screen. Additionally, Apple has expanded its spam filtering tools, helping users better manage unwanted calls and messages.
One notable omission from this release is the major update to Apple’s Siri voice assistant, initially promised in 2024. Those improvements are now expected to arrive no earlier than 2026.
Nevertheless, Apple has incorporated several AI-powered features in iOS 26. These include real-time language translation capabilities within iMessage and FaceTime, and a new visual search function that analyzes screenshots. For example, users can highlight an object in a screenshot, such as a lamp, and quickly find purchasing options for similar items online.
Apple traditionally announces its major software updates each June at its Worldwide Developers Conference, followed by a public beta release during the summer. After thorough testing and refinement, the final software version is released alongside new iPhone models in the fall, with most users receiving automatic updates. This cycle allows Apple to continually improve the iPhone experience while introducing innovative features and design enhancements.
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