Install iOS 26 & iPadOS 26 Dev Betas for a First Look at Apple’s New OS

At its WWDC event, Apple recently revealed iOS 26 and iPadOS 26. The good news is that you don’t need to be a developer to test them out.

Install iOS 26 Developer Beta on your iPhone and iPad, it is currently available for free download from Apple. This tutorial is for you if you’re eager to see the most recent updates on your iPhone or iPad prior to their official release.

Read: Apple WWDC 2025: Biggest Reveals That Could Redefine Tech

How to Install the iOS 26 Developer Beta and iPadOS 26 on Your iPhone or iPad?

Even if you have never installed iOS 26 Developer Beta before, you will learn exactly how to do it safely in this guide. To make things easier for you to follow, I’ve divided everything into manageable steps.

Things to Consider Before Starting

Remember that a developer beta is still a test version before you jump in. Things might not go exactly as planned. Some features may be incomplete, and apps may crash. Thus, the first thing you should do is:

• Make a backup of your device. To create a complete backup, use your computer or iCloud. In the event that something goes wrong, this step is essential.
• Don’t use your iPad or primary phone. Instead of using your daily driver, try installing the beta on a spare device (if you have any).
• Be prepared for bugs. You may occasionally notice unexpected behavior because this isn’t the final version.

Let’s begin now that you are aware of the precautions.

So, What’s New in iPadOS 26 and iOS 26?

This year, Apple has included a number of intriguing features:

1. Liquid Glass User Interface: A sleek, contemporary, transparent style.
2. Smarter iPad Multitasking: Multitasking is now easier than ever thanks to improved window management.
3. New Messages Features: More entertaining and expressive chat options.
4. A Special Games App: An Apple-curated collection of all your games in one location.
5. Smarter AI Assistant Access: More intuitive and natural ways to communicate with Siri and other devices.

iOS 26 Developer Beta Compatible Devices:

• The iPhone 16 series
• The iPhone 15 series
• iPhone 14 series
• iPhone models 13, 12, and 11 (including Mini, Pro, and Pro Max models)
• iPhone SE (second generation and later)

iPads running iPadOS 26:

• iPad Pro (M4, 12.9-inch, first generation and later, and 11-inch, first generation and later)
• iPad Air (M3, M2, and later models of the third generation)
• iPad (A16, 8th generation and up)
• iPad Mini (A17 Pro, 5th generation and up)

Installing the iOS 26 Developer Beta Step-by-Step

1. Check that you are running iOS 16.4 or later.

Check your iOS version by going to Settings > General > About. You’re ready to go if you’re running iOS 16.4 or later. Update your device first.

2. Become a member of the Apple Developer Program.
You still need to register as a developer even though it’s currently free.

• Go to the Apple Developer Site.
• After selecting “Account,” enter your Apple ID to log in.
• Navigate to “Start Your Enrollment” and proceed as instructed.

3. Activate Developer Mode.
After enrolling:

• Navigate to Settings > Security & Privacy.
• Toggle Developer Mode ON by scrolling down to it.
• If prompted, restart your device.
• Connect your iPhone to a Mac running Xcode if Developer Mode is not visible. It will become active as a result.

4. In Settings, enable beta updates.

• Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update.
• A new Beta Updates option is now visible to you. Give it a tap.
• Verify that the correct Apple ID—which is required for developer access—is displayed. If not, tap it to change to the correct one.

5. Choose the Developer Beta for iOS 26.

Depending on your device, select either the iOS 26 Developer Beta or the iPadOS 26 Developer Beta under the Beta Updates section.

6. Get the update and install it.

• Return to Settings > General  > Software Update.
• The iOS 26 Developer Beta should appear.
• Tap Download and Install, agree to the terms, and follow the instructions.
• Your device will restart once the installation is complete.

What to Expect Following Installation?

Well done! Your iPhone or iPad is now running the iOS 26 Developer Beta.

Though keep in mind that it’s a beta version, you will notice new features, designs, and adjustments. The Feedback Assistant app is now accessible from your home screen; use it to report bugs, because you are going to face a lot of known and unknown bugs.

Wrapping It All

It’s now simpler and easier than ever to install the iOS 26 Developer Beta. This guide helps you safely navigate Apple’s most recent updates, whether you’re just interested in the new features or want to get a head start.

It’s all part of the beta experience, so keep in mind to backup your device and be prepared for some glitches. Take pleasure in being the first to try out the upcoming iOS and iPadOS versions!