Apple unveiled iOS 26 at the WWDC 2025 keynote, showcasing the new Liquid Glass design language, one of the most important UI changes in recent years. The developer beta is available for testers and developers. Here’s how to join the beta programme and install iOS 26 on your iPhone.

iOS 26 Release Timeline

iOS 26,along wiht iPadOS 26,watchOS 26,and macOS 26 (tahoe),were released on the same day they were announced at Apple’s annual developer conference. The initial release is the iOS 26 Developer Beta 1.

The public beta, which is typically more stable, is expected next month. the final version is anticipated in the fall, potentially alongside the launch of the new iPhone 17.

• iOS 26 Developer Beta: Released on June 9, 2025
• iOS 26 Public Beta: Expected in July 2025
• iOS 26 Final: Expected in September 2025

Those in the developer program can test the beta instantly. Users can now sign up for the program for free.

Checking iOS 26 Compatibility

Before updating, ensure your iPhone is compatible with iOS 26. The iPhone XS and iPhone XR are no longer supported, but iPhone 11 and later models, including the iPhone 16e, are compatible.

• iPhone 16e
• iPhone 16 series
• iPhone 15 series
• iPhone 14 series
• iPhone 13 series
• iPhone 12 series
• iPhone 11 series
• iPhone SE 2nd gen
• iPhone se 1st gen

Is the iOS 26 Developer Beta Right for You?

The iOS 26 Developer Beta is less stable than the public beta and may contain bugs. Installing it on a secondary iPhone is recommended.If you proceed, back up your iPhone. Alternatively, wait for the public beta in July.

The iOS 26 Developer Beta update is less stable compared to the public beta and may contain bugs.

Creating a Developer account

Creating an Apple Developer account is free, but enrolling in certain programs may require a fee. Accessing beta software only requires a free account. Use the same Apple ID signed in on your iPhone.

1. Go to the Apple Developer website (developer.apple.com).
2. Tap on Account and sign in using your Apple ID.
3. Tap Agree on the Developer Agreement to proceed.

Paying the enrollment fee is unnecessary to receive the developer Beta update.

Updating to iOS 26 Developer Beta

After associating your Apple ID with the Developer account, activate the Developer Beta software in your iPhone settings before updating to iOS 26 Developer Beta.

Here’s how to activate the developer beta and update to iOS 26:

1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
2. Tap on General > Software Update.
3. Enable Beta Updates.
4. Select iOS 26 Developer Beta.
5. tap the Back button.
6. Refresh the dashboard untill the iOS 26 Developer Beta appears.

Once available, download and update to iOS 26 Developer Beta. Disable beta updates by switching it off.

Alternatively, wait for the iOS 26 Public Beta using the developer account, or enroll in the public beta program separately if you don’t have a developer account.