Apple releases public beta 3 for watchOS 26 tvOS 26 and HomePod 26

Apple has released public beta 3 for watchOS 26, tvOS 26 and HomePod 26 with a focus on bug fixes and stability ahead of the full rollout.

Apple releases public beta 3 for watchOS 26 tvOS 26 and HomePod 26

Apple has released public beta 3 for watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and HomePod 26 to public testers. The move follows developer beta 6 and centers on bug fixes and stability rather than notable feature changes.

This beta cycle comes as Apple gears up for a public launch expected next month. iOS 26 shows notable updates in this wave, including new ringtones and Liquid Glass changes, but those updates are not seen in the watchOS 26, tvOS 26, or HomePod 26 betas. Across platforms, Apple signals that the priority is a smooth, reliable experience at launch, with future betas likely to refine performance and compatibility.

Apple appears to be prioritizing reliability over novelty. By keeping watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and HomePod 26 focused on fixes, the company reduces the risk of post release problems. This cautious stance can build user trust, but it may disappoint early adopters hoping for fresh features this cycle.

The lack of visible changes in these betas mirrors a broader industry pattern where the real payoff comes from a stable rollout. For developers, it underscores the need to test across devices and report issues quickly. If the pace stays steady, the launch could be smoother than recent cycles, even if public excitement feels muted.

Highlights

A stable launch is the prize Apple is chasing.