Apple has released the sixth developer beta of iOS 26, bringing subtle but notable refinements to its Liquid Glass design language, improved animations, fresh ringtones, and a new onboarding experience. This update builds on previous iOS 26 beta versions by polishing visual effects and UI responsiveness, signaling close preparation for the stable release expected around the iPhone 17 launch.
Key Features in iOS 26 Developer Beta 6
- New Onboarding Video: Upon installation, users are greeted with a fresh intro video that explains the Liquid Glass design—a translucent, glass-like aesthetic that defines the new UI across iOS and other Apple platforms. This sequence highlights customization options and the fluid, dynamic elements of the interface.
- Faster, Fluid App Animations: App launch and close animations have been tweaked to be noticeably quicker and more visually appealing. The new animation looks akin to the “magic lamp” or “genie” effect seen in iPadOS, with apps popping open faster, providing a snappier user experience.
- More Transparent Lock Screen Clock: The clock on the lock screen now features increased transparency, allowing the background image to be visible through the clock face in both standard and longer clock styles. This subtle visual adjustment enhances the overall Liquid Glass feel.
- Improved Menu Label Readability: Apple addressed concerns users had regarding menu labels becoming hard to read depending on the background. The update ensures that text maintains high clarity and contrast regardless of underlying elements.
- Rainbow Chromatic Effect: Switching between menus now has a subtle chromatic, rainbow-like effect that complements the glass immersion, adding an elegant, dynamic touch to system navigation.
- New Ringtones: The beta introduces multiple new ringtone remixes under the “Reflection” category. These include “Buoyant,” “Dreamer,” “Pond,” “Pop,” “Surge,” and “Little Bird” — fresh takes on Apple’s classic tones for a personalized auditory experience.
What to Expect Next
The iOS 26 Developer Beta 6 is part of Apple’s final polishing stages ahead of the stable iOS 26 release, expected just before or alongside the iPhone 17 series launch in September 2025. While major interface or functionality changes are unlikely from here, these refinements enhance overall fluidity, aesthetics, and usability in iOS.
Users on the public beta track can expect these features soon, as this build’s enhancements primarily focus on user experience and visual polish rather than adding brand-new capabilities.