Latest news with #publicbeta
Forbes
a day ago
- Forbes
iOS 26 Public Beta Release Date: Exactly When Apple's iPhone Software Will Go Live
Updated July 21 with further details of exactly when the new iPhone software will reach public beta. Apple announced the next big iPhone software back in June, set to go on general release this fall. It's called iOS 26 and its new design has made it highly anticipated. If you're keen to try iOS 26, it's about to become available in the first public beta – and more information has now come to light. Here's what's happening. Apple iOS 26 coming soon Apple announced in June that the release of iOS 26 would first appear as developer betas as usual, with the first public beta set for July. When it reaches general release it will be on the 2025 releases, iPhone 17 series, as well the iPhone 16 sereis and some earlier models. That's the normal schedule, though the public beta routinely arrives around the middle of the month — so the week beginning Monday, July 14 seemed most likely. That's come and gone, of course, but it looks like this week could be the one we're waiting for. In the latest Power On newsletter, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman addressed the question. He had already posted on X that the public beta would land around Wednesday, July 23. Now, he has expanded on this reasoning. 'All indications are that iOS 26 should go into the public beta phase this coming week. This typically happens by the middle of July, so the software is a bit later than usual. Given that iOS 26 is such a significant design overhaul, it makes sense that Apple would want to take a little extra time to get things right,' Gurman said. And there's another reason things seem to be running a little late, which is that instead of using the third developer beta as the basis for the public beta, which is the usual one, 'It seems likely that this public beta will match up with the fourth developer beta version,' this time, Gurman goes on. This means that although it's a little later, it'll be based on a more stable release, assuming Apple is improving its beta software with each release. Since this is for public use, better software will be welcome. There have been tweaks to the Liquid Glass design which is the marquee feature in iOS 26, so maybe developer beta 4/public beta 1, will have something closer to the final look. iOS 26 Public Beta Release Date This week looks most likely: Apple said July and after this week, there are only three days in July left. I believe it will be released the day after the fourth developer beta, so if that lands on Monday, July 21, the public beta will be Tuesday, July 22. Gurman's proposed date of July 23 is also possible, but keep an eye out for dev beta news on Monday. I'll be updating the news, so please check back. Updating this post on Monday, July 21, I can see there's greater clarity of what's happening. I know, it's unusual to make a prediction based on something that hasn't happened, but there's been no fourth developer beta yet. I don't believe it will come today, which makes me think that Tuesday will see the release of the fourth developer beta, which forms the basis for the first public beta. It's theoretically possible that the public beta could land on the same day as the latest developer beta, but I don't buy it. Much more likely is that the public beta will follow the next day, Wednesday, 23 July, exactly as Gurman predicted, or just possibly on Thursday, 24 July, depending on whether there are any last-minute hiccups. Remember, this developer beta cycle began with an unprecedented re-release of the first beta, just days after the initial release. What About The General Release? The expectation of a September release remains in place. 'Does that mean the final software will ultimately ship later than expected,' Gurman asks, adding, 'Probably not, since the developer versions remain on track.'
CNET
a day ago
- CNET
Can't Wait for iOS 26? The Public Beta Could Land on Your iPhone This Week
When Apple announced iOS 26 at its Worldwide Developers Conference in June, the tech company also announced that the new iOS version would be available to the general public this fall. However, developers can try an early version of iOS 26 now, and public beta testers could see the iPhone software this week. According to the latest rumors, we could see the public beta as soon as Wednesday. Historically, Apple releases the first public beta of its upcoming iPhone software during July. Apple usually releases the latest iOS version in September, so a July public beta release gives the company time to squash major bugs and address issues you might encounter on your iPhone before the OS shows up for everyone. But we're already halfway through July so you might be wondering where the public beta is. The good news is that Mark Gurman, a managing editor and Apple reporter at Bloomberg, posted on X, formerly Twitter, that Apple could release the public beta around Wednesday, July 23. That means public beta testers could get to experience new iOS 26 features, like Liquid Glass, backgrounds in Messages and more, in less than 48 hours. Before you download the public beta, you should know that this is a beta version of iOS 26, not the final version of the software. That means the update might be buggy for you, and your device's battery life may be affected, so it's best to keep those troubles off your primary device. If you want to try the beta, I recommend downloading it on a secondary device. You should also know iOS 26 is only compatible with devices newer than the iPhone 11. So if you have an iPhone XR -- like I do -- you can't download the developer or public beta of iOS 26. Trust me: I tried, and my XR wouldn't load the page to download the developer beta despite me really wanting to see if my almost seven-year-old device could handle the OS. For more, here's what to know about Liquid Glass, how iOS 26 revamps your iPhone's alarm and everything else you should know about the update.
Geeky Gadgets
a day ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 26 Public Beta: 8 Essential Facts Before You Install
The iOS 26 public beta has captured widespread attention with its promise of new features, enhanced performance, and a refined design. However, before committing to the beta, it's essential to carefully evaluate its potential benefits and drawbacks. The video below from iReviews provides a detailed overview of the most critical factors to consider, making sure you make a well-informed decision. Watch this video on YouTube. 1. Release Timeline Apple has adhered to a structured release schedule for iOS 26, designed to provide early access to both developers and the public. Key dates to keep in mind include: July 21: Fourth developer beta release. Fourth developer beta release. July 22 or 23: First public beta release. Initially, public beta updates will be released biweekly, transitioning to weekly updates as the final release approaches. The official launch is anticipated in mid-September, likely around September 15 or 22, following Apple's annual iPhone event scheduled for September 8. Staying aware of these dates will help you plan your update strategy effectively. 2. Device Compatibility Not all Apple devices will support iOS 26, making it crucial to confirm whether your device is eligible. Most devices running iOS 18 are compatible, but older models such as the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR are excluded. For these devices, iOS 18.6 will serve as the final update. If your device is compatible, you can proceed with the beta installation. Otherwise, you'll need to continue using your current software version. Making sure compatibility beforehand will save you time and prevent unnecessary frustration. 3. Storage Requirements Installing iOS 26 requires a significant amount of free storage space. To avoid installation errors, ensure your device has at least 22–25 GB of available space. Additionally, creating a secure backup of your data is essential. Use iCloud or a computer to back up your files, safeguarding your information in case of unexpected issues during the update process. Taking these precautions will help you avoid potential data loss and ensure a smoother installation experience. 4. Performance and Stability iOS 26 promises improved performance and faster response times compared to iOS 18.5. However, as with any beta software, stability issues are to be expected. Users have reported occasional overheating during tasks such as changing wallpapers and a noticeable increase in battery drain. While these issues are likely to be addressed in future updates, they may pose challenges if you rely heavily on your device for daily tasks. Carefully weighing these factors will help you determine whether the beta is suitable for your needs. 5. Beta Software Considerations Both the developer and public beta versions of iOS 26 offer identical features, with public beta releases typically delayed by a day. While beta software provides early access to exciting new features, it often includes bugs or incomplete functionality. If your device is critical for work or other essential activities, waiting for the official release may be the safer option. Understanding the risks associated with beta software will help you decide whether early access is worth the potential trade-offs. 6. Downgrade Capability If you encounter significant issues with the iOS 26 beta, downgrading to a stable version is an option. However, this process can be complex and carries the risk of data loss. To minimize risks, ensure you have a complete backup before attempting a downgrade. Keep in mind that downgrading can be time-consuming and may require technical expertise. It's best reserved as a last resort if the beta proves too unstable for your needs. 7. Design Updates One of the standout features of iOS 26 is the introduction of the 'liquid glass' design, which offers a sleek and modern aesthetic. This design represents a significant departure from previous versions, delivering a polished and visually appealing user interface. While the updated design enhances the overall user experience, it may take some time for users accustomed to older layouts to adjust. Exploring the new design firsthand can help you determine whether it aligns with your preferences. 8. Should You Update? The iOS 26 public beta provides an exciting glimpse into Apple's next-generation operating system, complete with meaningful updates and a refreshed design. However, it's not without its challenges. If you're comfortable navigating potential issues such as overheating or reduced battery life, the beta offers an opportunity to explore new features ahead of the official release. On the other hand, if you prioritize stability and reliability, waiting until the final release in September may be the better choice. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether to install the iOS 26 public beta or wait for the official version. Balancing the allure of new features with the potential risks will help you choose the best path for your needs. Master iOS 26 Public Beta with the help of our in-depth articles and helpful guides. Source & Image Credit: iReviews Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Forbes
2 days ago
- Forbes
iOS 26 Public Beta Release Date: When Apple's New iPhone Update Goes Live
Apple announced the next big iPhone software back in June, set to go on general release this fall. If you're keen to try iOS 26, it's about to become available in the first public beta. Here's what's happening. Apple iOS 26 coming soon Apple announced in June that the release of iOS 26 would first appear as developer betas as usual, with the first public beta set for July. When it reaches general release it will be on the 2025 releases, iPhone 17 series, as well the iPhone 16 sereis and some earlier models. That's the normal schedule, though the public beta routinely arrives around the middle of the month — so the week beginning Monday, July 14 seemed most likely. In the latest Power On newsletter, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman addressed the question. He had already posted on X that the public beta would land around Wednesday, July 23. Now, he has expanded on this reasoning. 'All indications are that iOS 26 should go into the public beta phase this coming week. This typically happens by the middle of July, so the software is a bit later than usual. Given that iOS 26 is such a significant design overhaul, it makes sense that Apple would want to take a little extra time to get things right,' Gurman said. And there's another reason things seem to be running a little late, which is that instead of using the third developer beta as the basis for the public beta, which is the usual one, 'It seems likely that this public beta will match up with the fourth developer beta version,' this time, Gurman goes on. This means that although it's a little later, it'll be based on a more stable release, assuming Apple is improving its beta software with each release. There have been tweaks to the Liquid Glass design which is the marquee feature in iOS 26, so maybe developer beta 4/public beta 1, will have something closer to the final look. iOS 26 Public Beta Release Date This week looks most likely: Apple said July and after this week, there are only three days in July left. I believe it will be released the day after the fourth developer beta, so if that lands on Monday, July 21, the public beta will be Tuesday, July 22. Gurman's proposed date of July 23 is also possible, but keep an eye out for dev beta news on Monday. I'll be updating the news, so please check back.
Digital Trends
7 days ago
- Digital Trends
Apple's iOS 26 public beta may finally arrive next week
Why it matters: Apple fans dying to try the latest iPhone OS have faced a wait longer than expected for the iOS 26 public beta, diverging from Apple's usually rapid rollout. A near-term release could help ramp up user testing , work out bugs, and increase excitement ahead of the full launch this fall, especially as rivals like Google push AI-heavy Android updates. The big idea: Multiple reports suggest Apple is looking at July 23rd for the iOS public beta debut, based on insights from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. This follows the developer beta 3 rollout on July 7, which skipped the typical one-week public follow-up. Go deeper: Delayed timeline: Apple teased a July window at it's June announcement, but the holdup has fueled a lot of chatter. Gurman flagged the July 23rd target in an X reply, calling it 'unusually late,' while sites like MacRumors and The Apple Post echo the date. Some speculation, including Reddit threads, point to a possible Monday drop instead, but the online consensus overall is still suggesting mid-next week. Apple teased a July window at it's June announcement, but the holdup has fueled a lot of chatter. Gurman flagged the July 23rd target in an X reply, calling it 'unusually late,' while sites like MacRumors and The Apple Post echo the date. Some speculation, including Reddit threads, point to a possible Monday drop instead, but the online consensus overall is still suggesting mid-next week. Feature highlights: iOS 26 promises a revamped design, deeper Apple Intelligence integration for a smarter Siri and apps, enhanced privacy tools and better multi-tasking. Early betas also tease AI-driven photo editing and on-device processing for faster, more secure experiences. For our take on the standout beta features so far, like the 'Liquid Glass' design and new apps, check out our take on three iOS beta features we like so far. We have also covered updates we think you'll actually use in Apple iOS 26. iOS 26 promises a revamped design, deeper Apple Intelligence integration for a smarter Siri and apps, enhanced privacy tools and better multi-tasking. Early betas also tease AI-driven photo editing and on-device processing for faster, more secure experiences. For our take on the standout beta features so far, like the 'Liquid Glass' design and new apps, check out our take on three iOS beta features we like so far. We have also covered updates we think you'll actually use in Apple iOS 26. Developer side: A fourth developer beta could hit as soon as tomorrow, sticking to Apple's weekly cadence post-beta 3. However, the shifted public access breaks from patterns seen in prior years, perhaps a sign that Apple is scrambling to get Apple Intelligence up to competitive par. Recommended Videos The bottom line: Enroll in Apple's Beta Software Program to get in line for the update. With sources aligning on a late-July push, iOS 26's beta phase is heating up—Digital Trends will track features, compatibility (starting from newer iPhones like the 16 series onward), and any last-minute shifts. Curious if your iPhone will support iOS 26? See our full list of iOS 26 compatible models. For everything we know about iOS 26 so far, check out our article here.
