Apple has released the public beta of iOS 26. Anyone who wants to test the new features now can easily install the test version on their iPhone. It's important to keep a few things in mind—for example, device compatibility, a complete backup, and the fact that this is unfinished software. This guide will show you exactly how to install the iOS 26 beta and what you should know beforehand.
Beta versions are testing versions and not intended for daily use. They may contain bugs, cause apps to crash, or impair certain features. Apple itself advises against using the beta on your primary device. If you have a second device, use that instead. If not, at least make sure you can always revert to a previous stable version—so a full backup is a must.
Compatible iPhone models
Not every iPhone supports iOS 26. The following models are supported:
- iPhone 16, 16e, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE 2nd and 3rd generation
If you're not sure which model you have, go to Settings, then General, and tap About. You'll find the model name there.
Create a backup: How to protect your iPhone before the beta
A complete backup, preferably encrypted, is essential before installing the beta. This is the only way to restore your system in an emergency.
To create a local backup on your Mac:
- Connect iPhone to Mac via cable
- Tap “Allow” if you are asked to connect
- In Finder, select your iPhone in the sidebar
- Click on “Trust” and enter the passcode if necessary
- In the “General” tab, select the option “Back up all data on this Mac”
- For an encrypted backup, enable “Encrypt local backup” and set a password
- Click on “Secure now”
Once the backup is complete, you can restore your backup at any time via Finder if needed.
Installing iOS 26 Beta: Step by Step
Once your iPhone is backed up and you have a compatible device, you can install the beta. You don't need a developer account to do this—just sign up for the Apple Public Beta Software Program.
- Open Safari on your iPhone
- Visit beta.apple.com
- Sign in with your Apple ID or register again
- Agree to the terms and conditions
- Select the “iOS” tab and tap “Register iOS Device”
- Create an archived backup if you haven’t already done so
- In the iPhone settings, go to “General”, then “Software Update”
- Tap on “Beta Updates” and select “iOS 26 Public Beta”
- Wait for the update to download, then tap Install Now
iOS 26 Beta: What you should consider before using it
The iOS 26 beta is a great opportunity to try out new features before the official release. As long as you make a backup and don't use your primary device, you can test it relatively safely. But remember: It's a beta. Bugs are inevitable. If you use your device productively, it might be worth waiting for the stable version. If you still want to try the iOS 26 beta, you now have detailed instructions to get started. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)
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iOS 26 Beta: The most important questions and answers
The iOS 26 beta is a test version of the new iPhone operating system that Apple makes publicly available before the official release.
Anyone with a compatible iPhone can install the public beta through the Apple Beta Software Program.
Beta versions may contain bugs and are not recommended for daily use on the main device.
iPhones from iPhone 11 onwards are supported, including the iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation). You can find a complete list in the article.
You log in to beta.apple.com, register your device, and select the beta under “Software Update.”
Yes. Before installing, you should create a full backup, preferably encrypted, to avoid data loss.
Yes, but only with an archived backup. The effort is significantly higher than with regular updates.
