Apple has just rolled out the first developer beta of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, packed with numerous new features and design overhauls. This release comes soon after the WWDC keynote, bringing exciting updates to compatible iPhone and iPad models. 
If you’re a developer, you can download the beta version right now to test the new features on your device.
To get started, first, ensure your Apple ID is linked to your Developer Account. This is the only way Apple can send you the over-the-air (OTA) update. Once your account is linked, head to your device’s Settings app. From there, go to General > Software Update > Beta Updates and follow the prompts to start the download.
iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 bring substantial upgrades, including a sleek glass-like interface inspired by visionOS, which was showcased at WWDC. Developers will be thrilled with the introduction of the new Games app and APIs that integrate large language models for more robust app development.
As this is a beta release, it is important to note that these builds are intended solely for testing. Developers are advised to install these updates on secondary devices since the initial release can be prone to bugs, affecting normal functionality. Keep an eye out for additional beta updates, which will be discussed in future posts.