Apple’s first public beta for iOS 26 is nearly here, and iPhone users are eagerly awaiting its release. Following the company’s WWDC 2026 event, the first beta was made available for developers, but the general public will have to wait just a bit longer. 
The first public beta is set to drop later this week, and it promises a host of exciting updates and features.
One of the standout changes in iOS 26 is the all-new Liquid Glass design, which has caused quite a stir. While some have criticized it for lacking originality or being a bit too disruptive, others have embraced the sleek new interface. If you haven’t had the chance to experience it yet, it might be worth holding off until the public beta drops.
Apple has already released several beta versions for developers, and according to reliable sources like Mark Gurman, the public beta is right around the corner. Leaked build numbers for iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, tvOS 26, and watchOS 26 further hint that the release is imminent. You can take a look at these build numbers for an inside peek into what’s coming:
- iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 beta 4 – 23A5297i
- macOS 26 beta 4 – 25A5316i
- tvOS 26 and HomePod Software 26 beta 4 – 23J5316g
- watchOS 26 beta 4 – 23R5317g
- visionOS 26 beta 4 – 23M5300g
If the leaks are accurate, the public beta of iOS 26 should be available tomorrow, July 23, following the release of the fourth developer beta today. Apple’s usual release cycle suggests that the public beta will be rolled out just a day after the developer beta drops. The release of macOS Tahoe 26’s public beta, despite being pulled back, also signals that Apple is getting closer to the final version of its updates.
Along with iOS 26, the public beta will include updates for iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, macOS 26, visionOS 26, and tvOS 26, so all compatible devices will receive updates. Stay tuned for more information as the release date approaches!