This summer, the iOS 26 public beta is grabbing headlines and generating significant excitement among iPhone users in Spain and the rest of the world. Although Apple typically maintains a fairly regular schedule for these preview versions of its operating system, this year the company has decided to take a little more time before allowing any user to download the beta on their devices.
In this article we detail When will the public beta be available, the reasons for the delay, the main new features, and the steps to install it? on your iPhone if you're one of those who wants to try out the new system before its official launch in September.
iOS 26 Public Beta Release Date
Whenever Apple announces a new version of iOS, the public expects its public beta in early to mid-JulyThis has been the case in recent years, with releases like iOS 15, 16, 17, and the previous generation, where users could access the beta between July 11 and 16. However, in 2025, things have changed, and as of July 17, the public beta has yet to be released.
Without official confirmation from Apple but with reliable leaks, Apple journalist Mark Gurman claims the public beta will arrive around July 23.It's the date everyone is considering after the company presented several developer betas in previous weeks, but delayed the release to the general public.
The reason for this slight delay could be related to Apple's work on polishing some key aspects of the operating system, particularly related to its new design, as we explain below.
Liquid Glass and the reasons for the delay
One of the biggest claims of iOS 26 is the redesign of the interface under the name Liquid Glass, which focuses on transparency and glass-like finishes for a large part of the visual experience. However, The design changes have generated some controversy and have forced Apple itself to modify its initial approach in the latest developer betas.
In previous versions, Extreme transparencies made it difficult to read text and buttons., especially in elements like the navigation bars for Apple Music, Podcasts, and the App Store. In response to numerous criticisms about usability, Apple has been toning down the glass effect, seeking a balance between aesthetics and ease of use.
This situation has led to several theories about the delay of the public beta. On the one hand, it is speculated that Apple is taking advantage of the extra week to refine the final version of Liquid GlassOn the other hand, it is believed that the company itself could be taking a "technical break" to refine the system's foundation and release a more stable and consistent experience to the general public.
What are the benefits and risks of installing the public beta?
Trying out a public beta always has its appeal, as allows you to access new features before anyone else and experience the operating system redesign. In the case of iOS 26, the visual changes and new customization options powered by Liquid Glass have sparked a lot of interest.
Yes, It is worth remembering that a beta is still a version under development., with potential bugs, abnormal battery consumption, and even incompatibility with common apps. Therefore, it's best to install it on a secondary iPhone and always make a backup before starting. This way, you'll avoid any unpleasant surprises if an unexpected problem arises.
The developers' experience in previous betas indicates that iOS 26 is already quite mature, although minor bugs or improved battery performance may still appear in the first few days after each weekly update.
IOS 26 Compatible Devices
Not all iPhone models will be eligible for the iOS 26 public beta. Apple has confirmed that you'll need at least an iPhone 11 or later. to test this version. Older models, such as the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max, are not on the compatibility list. The full list includes:
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation)
- iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16, 16e, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
How to install the iOS 26 public beta
Once Apple releases the public beta, the installation process is very simple. Just join the Apple Beta Software Program from the official website (beta.apple.com) and log in with your Apple ID. Once registered, you will receive instructions on how to activate the beta updates on your iPhone.
The basic steps are:
- Visit the Apple Beta Software Program website from your iPhone and sign in with your Apple ID.
- Accept the terms and conditions of the program.
- Go to Settings > General > Software update.
- Select the “Beta Updates” option and choose “iOS 26 Public Beta.”
Your iPhone will then begin searching for the beta version and download it just like a normal system update. Make sure you have enough storage and battery life before starting the process.
If you decide to revert to a later stable version, keep in mind that some data generated with iOS 26 may not be compatible with previous versions, especially in apps like WhatsApp or if you've also updated an Apple Watch to its corresponding beta.
Everything indicates that Apple will keep its July promise and, even if it pushes the calendar, users will be able to try it very soon. The new iOS 26 and its controversial Liquid Glass on your supported devices. Once you install the beta, you'll continue to receive weekly updates until the final version arrives in September, with ongoing improvements to stability and performance.
