Apple unveiled the next generation of its operating systems at WWDC 2026. The first developer betas of iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, watchOS 27, tvOS 27, and visionOS 27 are now available for download. This marks the start of the multi-month testing phase leading up to the final release this fall.
As in previous years, Apple will unveil its new operating systems at WWDC and grant registered developers access to the first test versions immediately after the keynote. These developer betas serve to test new features early and check apps for compatibility. A public beta typically follows in July. The final release of all systems is scheduled for September 2026. Anyone considering installing the beta should note: test versions can contain bugs and are not intended for production use on the primary device.
Which systems are available?
Apple has released the first developer betas for all six platforms.
Here's how to install the Developer Beta
Developer betas are available exclusively to registered developers. Installation is done via "Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates" on the respective device. An Apple account registered in the Apple Developer Program is required. If the installation does not work as expected, the overview of iPhone update problems and their solutions may provide further assistance.
Important: A developer beta should not be installed on your primary device. Bugs, crashes, and app incompatibilities are especially common in the first beta. A full backup before installation is strongly recommended.
When will the public beta be released?
Apple typically releases the public beta in July. This gives users without a developer account access to the new systems. The public beta is more stable than the initial developer betas, but may still contain bugs.
The road to the final release
The testing phase extends throughout the summer. Apple typically releases new builds weekly, gradually fixing bugs and refining features. The release candidate usually appears in September, shortly before the official launch alongside the new iPhones.
| Milestone | Expected timeframe |
|---|---|
| Developer Beta 1 | June 2026 (from now on) |
| Public Beta | July 2026 |
| More betas | July – September 2026 |
| Release Candidate | September 2026 |
| Final Release | September 2026 |
iOS 27: Here's what's next
The Developer Betas mark the start of the most intensive phase in the annual software cycle. Over the coming weeks and months, new features will be tested, refined, and added. The separate overview articles for each system will be continuously updated as soon as changes appear in the betas.
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