iOS 26 is officially here, and there’s a lot for Apple enthusiasts to be excited about! Announced at Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference, this new developer beta is now available, allowing both developers and curious users a chance to explore what’s new, even if it comes with some inherent risks.
This update introduces a stunning Liquid Glass design language for your iPhone, presenting a sleek interface inspired by VisionOS, specifically made for the Vision Pro headset. This leap skips over version 19, moving directly from iOS 18 to 26, highlighting the ambitious changes Apple is keen on rolling out.
If you’re thinking about diving into this early release, it’s essential to know what you’re getting into. Here’s a breakdown of what to anticipate if you decide to install the iOS 26 developer beta on your device.
Risky Territory: Developer Beta Insights
While Apple showcased a polished iOS experience during the WWDC keynote, the developer beta is inherently rough around the edges. Known for their instability, developer builds come with various bugs and issues that can disrupt daily usage. Past experiences with the iOS 18 Developer Preview had issues like apps failing to launch, notifications not appearing, and other glitches that could dampen the overall experience.
This is a crucial reason why Apple separates its betas into developer and public versions; the latter is generally more user-friendly. If you’re tempted to jump in, rest assured that we’ll dig into the specifics once we get hands-on with iOS 26’s latest build, saving you the hassle of navigating potential pitfalls.
Backup Before You Install: Essential Steps
Deciding to install the developer beta comes with risks, including significant bugs or performance lags that might force you to revert back to iOS 18 until a more stable public version is available. To ensure a smooth rollback if necessary, it’s wise to back up your data before installation.
Using iCloud for backups is recommended over your computer. Many users faced issues with their devices not being recognized during the iOS 18 beta, which made it difficult to revert back if needed. Here’s how to back up your iPhone using iCloud:
- Settings
- Tap your name
- Select your device
- Choose iCloud Backup
- Tap Back Up Now
Be sure to follow these steps to prevent potential loss of data during your beta testing journey.
What Lies Ahead: iOS 26 Public Beta Release
For those wary of possible disruptions, the public beta of iOS 26 is expected to be available sometime in July. This iteration is typically much more stable and user-friendly, ideal for the everyday Apple user looking to experience new features without the hurdles often found in developer builds.
As iOS 26 prepares to roll out, expect to see a continuation of enhancements that contribute significantly to an improved iOS experience while keeping users aligned with Apple’s fresh and innovative aesthetics.