Apple is set to release the first iOS 26 public beta as soon as next week, most likely on Wednesday, July 23. This marks a later rollout than usual—previous years saw public betas drop earlier in July—but multiple reputable sources, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, indicate “around the 23rd” as the targeted launch window for the public beta of iOS 26, alongside updates for iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and more.
This delay comes even though the third developer beta of iOS 26 is already out. Apple is expected to release the fourth developer beta just before the public beta, maintaining its historical pattern of developer and public release cadence. If Apple holds to its typical 7-day schedule, developer beta 4 could appear on Monday, July 21, followed by the public beta shortly afterward.
The major headline feature in iOS 26 is the new Liquid Glass design, which brings a fresh look to the iPhone interface, including a visually rich, layered lock screen and system elements influenced by Vision Pro’s UI. The public beta will also include a revamped Phone app, enhanced Maps with personalized routes, updates to core apps like Messages (adding polls and custom backgrounds), and new apps such as Preview and Games.
The public beta is expected to be notably more stable than the early developer versions, but as always, testers should back up their devices and be prepared for possible bugs or instability—this is still unfinished software. Anyone with a supported iPhone—11 series or newer—can enroll in Apple’s Beta Software Program to access iOS 26 public beta when it becomes available.
For those eager to try out Liquid Glass and other new features, the wait is almost over. Keep an eye out around July 23 for the official release of iOS 26 public beta.