Apple releases third public betas

Apple released the third public betas of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, inviting testers to try the updates ahead of a September launch.

Apple Rolls Out Third Public Betas for iOS 26 and iPadOS 26

Apple today released the third public betas of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26. The public betas let testers try the updates before the September launch. The new betas come a week after the second public betas, and Apple also updated the sixth iOS 26 developer beta with a new build number. Beta testers can download the updates by opening the Settings app, selecting General, and choosing Software Update.

The updates bring a Liquid Glass design with more transparency and rounded shapes. There are new AI features such as Visual Intelligence for screenshots, Live Translation for Messages, Phone, and FaceTime, and a ChatGPT style option in Image Playground. Spatial Scene adds depth to 2D photos. Safari gets updated navigation. In the Phone app, Call Screening and Hold Assist are included to save time. Messages supports customizable backgrounds and polls. CarPlay has a major UI overhaul, Apple Music adds AutoMix, and Preview arrives on the iPhone for the first time.

Apple appears to be relying on broad beta testing to tighten the final polish. Opening the door to more users can surface bugs early and push users to adopt a more AI driven experience. The new visuals and features signal a push to make the iPhone feel lighter and smarter, but there are trade offs for battery life and privacy that will need careful handling.

The changes extend beyond features to daily use. A refreshed CarPlay and new Apple Music tools point to a more integrated ecosystem where AI and design choices must work in harmony. If September brings smooth performance and clear explanations of AI data use, Apple can win trust; if not, investor sentiment and public reaction could turn difficult.

Highlights

The September release will reveal how well the polish holds up in real world use.