Apple fans eager for the next major software update may finally have a date to mark on their calendars. According to reliable reports, the iOS 26 public beta is rumored to launch next week on July 23, giving iPhone users their first official taste of Apple’s latest mobile operating system. The iOS 26 public beta has been a hot topic among developers and Apple enthusiasts alike, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated updates yet.
A Delayed Yet Exciting Release
So far, the iOS 26 public beta has been delayed longer than usual. Historically, Apple rolls out the public beta about a week after releasing its third developer beta. This year, however, the timeline has shifted. The iOS 26 developer beta 3 launched back on July 7, yet the public beta is still pending. Renowned Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman recently confirmed that Apple is now aiming for a July 23 release.
This slight delay has sparked conversations within the Apple community. Many testers have been speculating about whether Apple might push out a revised beta 3 or even drop the developer beta 4 before the public version goes live. If Apple sticks to its usual cadence, iOS 26 developer beta 4 could appear any day now.
Expected Features of iOS 26 Public Beta
While official details are still under wraps, early developer builds have hinted at several new features that iPhone users can look forward to. The iOS 26 public beta is expected to refine existing tools and introduce some surprises. Rumors suggest improvements to customization, tighter integration with Apple’s AI ecosystem, enhanced privacy options, and performance boosts for older devices.
If these leaks hold true, the iOS 26 public beta could significantly improve the iPhone user experience and help Apple maintain its lead in mobile innovation.
Supported Devices for iOS 26 Public Beta
Apple usually maintains wide support for older devices, and the iOS 26 public beta is expected to follow suit. Most iPhones from the iPhone XR and newer should be eligible to install the beta. However, users are always advised to back up their devices and proceed with caution—public betas can still be buggy and may affect daily usability.
How to Install the iOS 26 Public Beta
Once Apple flips the switch, installing the iOS 26 public beta should be straightforward. Users will need to enroll their devices via Apple’s Beta Software Program website, download the beta profile, and update through the Settings app. If you’re planning to try the iOS 26 public beta, make sure your iPhone is charged, backed up, and ready for potential quirks.
Final Thoughts
With the rumored release date closing in, excitement around the iOS 26 public beta is at an all-time high. Apple’s public betas provide a valuable preview of what’s to come while giving the company feedback to refine the final build, which usually launches in September alongside new iPhone models.
As always, early testers should expect bugs and performance hiccups. But for those who love exploring Apple’s latest innovations before anyone else, the iOS 26 public beta is worth the wait.
Stay tuned for official confirmation from Apple in the coming days. If the rumor mill is right, iPhone users worldwide will be exploring iOS 26 public beta by next Wednesday.
