Apple has released the third beta of iOS 26.1 for the iPhone, a further step that shows that the definitive version It is just around the cornerThe company continues to refine details while fine-tuning performance and stability ahead of the general release.
The update arrives by the developer channel and is accompanied by the third betas of iPadOS 26.1, macOS Tahoe 26.1, watchOS 26.1, and tvOS 26.1. This iteration adds visible tweaks and under-the-hood changes that, together, They are finishing shaping the first major revision of iOS 26..
What's new in iOS 26.1 beta 3
One of the most visible changes is the Apple TV app icon redesign, which adopts a more colorful finish in line with the system's current aesthetic. It's a minor touch, but it points to a more visually coherent line.
On the functional level, the system is prepared for support third-party AI providers Beyond ChatGPTThe code includes references suggesting this opening, which would allow users to choose other options in the future if they so wish.
Additionally, Apple is testing a Forwarding notifications to non-Apple watches and accessoriesThe setting, located within Notifications in Settings, would expand support for third-party wearables to receive iPhone notifications.
Along with these new features, beta 3 includes the following common optimizations: stability improvements, less presence of errors and fine adjustments in the interface that help everything feel more consistent.
Release schedule and availability
With this third beta on the streets, the calendar indicates that There are only a few weeks left for the final versionThe most likely window is between late October and early November, with a release candidate (RC) prior to that if no last-minute glitches occur.
iOS 26.1 beta 3 is available in the developer program. It is expected that the public beta will be updated shortly For those who prefer to try it without a developer account, always with the usual caution when dealing with trial software.
What iOS 26.1 already included in previous betas
During this cycle, Apple has expanded Apple Intelligence with New languages ​​such as Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese, Swedish, Turkish, Traditional Chinese and Vietnamese. The function of AirPods live translation It also grows with support for Japanese, Korean, Italian and Chinese.
In the multimedia section, Apple Music allows you to skip songs by swiping in the mini-player., while Photos debuts a video control with aesthetics Liquid glass more modern and in line with the rest of the system.
iOS 26.1 has been refining the interface with small changes in Telephone, Calendar, Safari and Game ModeThese are subtle tweaks that improve readability, visual hierarchy, and consistency across menus and notifications.
The alarm screen was also revised: To stop the alarm you now have to slide, reducing accidental touches. Alignment and typography tweaks have been applied to Settings and Folders, along with slight variations to the Liquid Glass effect in various panels.
How to install iOS 26.1 beta 3
If you need to try the new features right now, you can install the beta from the iPhone itself, keeping in mind that Being a test version, errors may appear or unstable behaviors.
- Link your Apple ID to the Apple Developer Program.
- Open Settings > General > Software update.
- Under Beta Updates, select iOS 26 Developer Beta.
- Go back and download/install the update when it appears.
If at any point you wish to return to a stable version, you will have to restore iPhone with a public version, so it is recommended to backup before taking the leap.
With this beta 3, iOS 26.1 takes its final form: Small visible changes, compatibility improvements and stability adjustments They mark a high pace of development that leads to a final release in the coming weeks.
