Apple has just released its first previews of iOS 26 ahead of its official launch but not everyone can get it.
Apple’s all-new iOS 26 operating was first shown to the world last month with it featuring a new Liquid Glass look, changes to the home screen and even the ability to block annoying scam calls automatically. It’s another blockbuster release from the US tech giant and it should officially arrive on devices in the autumn.
If that sounds like far too long to wait, there is a way to test it out today. Apple has just announced the launch of its iOS 26 Public Beta. This early version lets consumers try out what’s new while giving Apple feedback about any worrying bugs or glitches that might be lurking inside the software.
It’s a nice way to get a free upgrade before the masses but not everyone is in luck and it may leave some needing a new iPhone. Every few years, Apple has to drop support for older devices as they simply can’t keep pace with the power that’s needed to run the very latest software.
Sadly, this time around it’s the turn of the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR with these call maker compatible with the iOS 26 beta or the official version coming later in the year.
HERE ARE ALL THE iPHONES THAT CAN USE iOS 26
iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max • iPhone 16 Plus • iPhone 16 • iPhone 16e iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max • iPhone 15 Plus • iPhone 15 • iPhone 14 • iPhone 14 Plus • iPhone 14 Pro • iPhone 14 Pro Max • iPhone 13 • iPhone 13 mini • iPhone 13 Pro • iPhone 13 Pro Max • iPhone 12 • iPhone 12 mini • iPhone 12 Pro • iPhone 12 Pro Max • iPhone 11 • iPhone 11 Pro • iPhone 11 Pro Max
“Help make the next releases of iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, watchOS, HomePod software and AirPods firmware our best yet,” Apple said in an update on its website.
“As a member of the Apple Beta Software Programme, you can take part in shaping Apple software by test-driving pre-release versions and letting us know what you think,”
As long as you know this isn’t finished software and are prepared to see the odd glitch, it’s really easy to give the Public Beta a go.
To get iOS 26, simply head to Apple’s website (see the link here) and follow the instructions to sign up for its Beta Software Program. The process doesn’t take long, and you’ll soon find your iPhone is running with all the shiny new updates announced last month.
WHAT’S NEW IN iOS 26?
There’s plenty going on in iOS 26 including a new look, which Apple is calling Liquid Glass. It does pretty much what it says on the tin, with menus, apps, and interactions getting a glossy appearance that really does look like you’re looking through…errr, glass. The update is subtle at the times, but it certainly refreshes things and adds a modern twist to the on-screen appearance.
The lock screen has also had a refresh in 2025 with things getting even more interactive. The much-loved clock will now fluidly adapt to the available space on the display with it also changing depending on the image and what notifications pop up.
Next, there are some smart changes coming to Apple’s popular phones.
If you are fed up with those annoying cold calls then iOS 26 is worth installing. Apple has added a new feature in this release called Call Screening which won’t let unknown numbers pester you until the person on the phone confirms who they are.
There’s also good news if you travel a lot. iOS 26 will translate both calls and texts in real time, so you can hear and see exactly what is being said.