iOS Beta Version 26 Now Accessible: Guide for Download, Eligible Devices, and Fresh Features
Apple has made a significant move by releasing the public beta for its latest operating system update, iOS 26. This update promises a host of visual upgrades, AI-powered tools, and useful everyday features, making it an exciting development for iPhone users.
Compatible Devices and Advanced AI Features
The public beta of iOS 26 is compatible with a wide range of iPhone models, including the iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max. Notably, the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max are not supported for iOS 26.
Advanced AI features such as Genmoji, Image Playground, and the new Visual Intelligence search require more powerful hardware and are only available on the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and all iPhone 16 models. Older supported devices will receive the general design and system updates but not these AI-driven features.
Key Features of iOS 26
One of the notable changes in iOS 26 is the Liquid Glass design, which gives apps and interface elements a transparent look. This update also includes a redesigned Lock Screen with 3D photo effects and a dynamic clock.
Other key features include Call Screening and Hold Assist, a dedicated gaming app, and updates to Genmoji and Image Playground. The AI features are a significant part of the iOS 26 update, with live translation, AI-powered shortcuts, poll suggestions in Messages, and Visual Intelligence for smarter image searches.
Installation and Precautions
To install the iOS 26 public beta, users need to open the Settings app, tap General, go to Software Update, tap Beta Updates, select iOS 26 public beta, enter their passcode when prompted, start the installation, and restart their phone.
Before installing the iOS 26 public beta, it is recommended to back up your iPhone to ensure your data is safe.
With these exciting new features and the wide compatibility range, iPhone users have a lot to look forward to with the upcoming stable release of iOS 26 later this year. For those who want to get a sneak peek, the public beta is now available for download.
Smartphones such as the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and all iPhone 16 models will benefit from advanced AI features like Genmoji, Image Playground, and Visual Intelligence search, which are not available on older supported devices. This year, iPhone users can anticipate the stable release of iOS 26, offering key features such as the Liquid Glass design, a redesigned Lock Screen, Call Screening and Hold Assist, a dedicated gaming app, and updates to Genmoji and Image Playground, along with AI-powered shortcuts and live translation.
