iOS 26 Public Beta starts soon – iOS 27 already in planning

Apple is about to release the public beta of iOS 26. Those interested in new iPhone features or who regularly install test versions will have access to the upcoming update in just a few days. At the same time, the first rumors about iOS 27 are emerging – and they point to more than just a regular software update.

Like every year, summer brings a wave of new beta releases from Apple. The public beta of iOS 26 takes center stage, accompanied by test versions of other operating systems such as iPadOS 26, macOS 26, and watchOS 26. The first developer betas are already available, but now the testing program is opening up to anyone interested. There's also some early information about iOS 27—and it's pretty impressive.

iOS 26 Public Beta to launch this week

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports in his latest Power On newsletter that the public test version of iOS 26 is scheduled to be released this week. Specifically, he mentions a timeframe around Wednesday, July 23rd. He had already speculated about the same date last week. Apple itself had previously only announced that the public beta would launch in July. An exact date was not given. Gurman's statements now indicate that Apple is preparing the final release of the beta version, and that it will indeed be released in the next few days.

Which systems will be released at the same time?

Along with the public beta of iOS 26, the public betas of other Apple operating systems are also expected to be released:

iPadOS 26
macOS 26
tvOS 26
watchOS 26
HomePod Software 26

There's something special about the AirPods this year: For the first time, Apple will be providing a public beta version of the upcoming AirPods firmware. Previously available only to developers, this option is now available to the general public for the first time. However, there will be no public test version for visionOS 26, the operating system for Apple Vision Pro. According to Apple's official beta website, no public beta is currently planned for this system.

How to participate in the Public Beta

Anyone who wants to try out iOS 26 and other beta software can sign up for free with the Apple Beta Software Program. All you need is an Apple ID. After signing up, you have access to the public betas. Apple strongly recommends creating a full backup of your device before installation. Beta software can contain bugs, be unstable, or render apps unusable. A backup protects against data loss in an emergency. The developer betas have been available for several weeks now. Although Apple recently waived the annual fee of $99, which was previously required for access to developer betas, an Apple Developer Account is still required. If you want to be on the safe side, it's better to wait for the public beta.

First hints of iOS 27 and a foldable iPhone

Even before iOS 26 is publicly tested, initial information about iOS 27 is already circulating. Mark Gurman is the source here, too. According to his information, Apple will soon begin active development of iOS 27. The focus will be on features for a foldable iPhone, which has been the subject of speculation for years. This device could be released in the second half of 2026. iOS 27 is intended to lay the foundation for it and prepare the corresponding software features. This suggests that iOS 27 will not just be a normal update with minor improvements, but possibly a major change—at least for new iPhone models with a special form factor.

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iOS 26 Public Beta coming soon, iOS 27 already in sight

The public beta of iOS 26 is imminent. Anyone interested in testing it can register soon and experience the new features in advance – free of charge and officially supported by Apple. At the same time, it's clear that Apple has long been working on the next major software generation. iOS 27 will likely be more than a routine update, as the focus on foldable hardware points to exciting developments in the coming years. (Image: Apple)