iOS 26 Public Beta Released: How to Install iPadOS, watchOS & macOS Tahoe Now

Apple has just released the public beta for iOS 26, alongside iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and macOS Tahoe 26, offering early adopters a sneak peek into the future of Apple’s software. The standout feature? Liquid Glass, an innovative new design language that combines sleek transparency with nostalgic vibes, reminiscent of Windows Vista but polished with Apple’s signature touch.

In this guide, we go beyond the basics to give you:

• Step-by-step installation instructions (with troubleshooting tips)

• Exclusive insights into Liquid Glass’s evolution from developer to public beta

• A look at the risks and rewards of installing the beta on your primary device

• Hidden features that most beta testers might be missing

Let’s dive in!

How to Install iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26 & macOS Tahoe Beta

Step 1: Enroll in Apple’s Beta Software Program

• Go to Apple’s Beta Software Program on your device.

• Sign in with your Apple ID.

• Select “Enroll Your Device” and follow the instructions.

Important Tip: Make sure to back up your device via iCloud or Finder before proceeding. Beta software can be unstable, and it’s always safer to have a backup.

Step 2: Download & Install

• For iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Tap “Download iOS 26 Beta.”

• For Mac: Open System Settings > General > Software Update > Select macOS Tahoe 26 Beta.

• For Apple Watch: Use the Watch app on your paired iPhone.

Installation Time: 20-40 minutes (depending on your device).

Liquid Glass: Apple’s Riskiest Design Leap Since iOS 7

What’s New?

• Fluid Transparency: Menus, widgets, and notifications now feature a frosted-glass effect, inspired by Windows Vista’s Aero, optimized for OLED screens.

• Dynamic Depth: Icons subtly shift perspective when you tilt your device (exclusive to iPhone 16 Pro models).

• Legibility Fixes: Apple has reduced transparency in notifications after user feedback.

Why It Matters: Liquid Glass is more than just a visual refresh. It’s a design foundation for Apple’s upcoming XR headset, hinting at deeper AR/VR integration in 2026. The latest updates in iOS 26 Beta 2 refine the Liquid Glass UI and introduce more accessibility options. Learn more about these changes in our detailed breakdown of iOS 26 Beta 2 here.

Beta Risks: Should You Install iOS 26 Early?

Pros

• First access to Liquid Glass

• New Siri animations

• Lock Screen customization upgrades

Cons

• Potential battery drain (~15% faster)

• App crashes, especially with banking apps

• Missing some features compared to the developer beta

Verdict: If you rely on your device for work, it’s best to install the beta on a secondary device.

Hidden Features Most Users Miss

• Quick Note Gesture (iPadOS 26): Swipe up from the corner with an Apple Pencil for quick note-taking.

• Dynamic Island Expansion (iOS 26): Third-party app live activities are now supported.

• Mac Continuity Camera (macOS Tahoe): Use your iPhone as a 4K webcam without a cable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When will iOS 26 officially launch? 

A: The official release is expected in September 2025.

Q: Can I revert to iOS 17 if I don’t like the beta? 

A: Yes, but you’ll need to erase your device and restore from a backup.

Q: Does Liquid Glass slow down older iPhones? 

A: Some users have reported minor lag on iPhone 12 and earlier models.

Related Articles

• iOS 26 Beta 2 Brings Liquid Glass Refinements and New Accessibility Features

• What’s New in iOS 18.5: Satellite Messaging, Screen Time Updates, and More

• ios 18.5 Beta

• iOS 19 Leak

• iOS 18.2 & iPadOS 18.2

Conclusion: Is the iOS 26 Beta Worth It?

• Apple’s Liquid Glass UI is a bold and exciting redesign, but the iOS 26 public beta is not for everyone. 

• If you’re an enthusiast eager for the next-gen software and are okay with a few bugs, then this guide will help you get set up. 

• However, if you rely on your device for daily tasks, it’s better to wait for the polished release in September.