With a few weeks left before the iPhone 17 launch, Apple has released the first public beta of iOS 26, will be the operating system of new iPhones. The standout update is the Liquid Glass design, a high-tech glassy interface, based on reflecting and refracting the environment to create a dynamic effect.
iOS 26 also has redesigned app icons, redesigned widgets, and floating tab bars in native apps like Music, News, and Podcasts. First revealed at WWDC 2025, the update is now available for public testing, after several developer beta versions, and will be officially released with the iPhone 17 series.
Unlike developer beta versions intended for advanced users, the public beta is more stable and available to everyone. Users can join Apple Beta Software Program, sign in with their Apple ID, and download update via the Software Update from Settings.
The public beta works with many devices such as iPhone SE (2nd generation and later), iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 models, standard and Pro models.
iOS 26 introduces redesigned apps such as Camera, Photos, and Safari. Camera now has a simpler interface, Photos has separated major galleries with curated collection, and Safari has fullscreen browsing.
Apple also integrated on-device Apple Intelligence since this update includes live Messages, FaceTime, and Phone translation; visual intelligence screen interactions, and generative AI tools such as Genmoji and Image Playground. These properties run completely locally to ensure privacy.
iOS 26 Final version will launch this fall along with iPhone 17 series and give users an advanced look at a futuristic interface, along with smarter AI tools.
