Apple Unleashes iOS 26 Public Beta: Liquid Glass Design Debuts

Everyday users can now test the latest features before the official fall release.

Apple has officially released the first public beta of iOS 26, making its new features accessible to a broader audience beyond developers. This move aims to build confidence for general users eager to experience the upcoming operating system ahead of its autumn rollout.

Fresh Design and Enhanced Apps

iOS 26 introduces a redesigned “Liquid Glass” interface, which has seen several refinements through the developer beta stages. Key applications are also receiving significant updates, including the Phone app, which now features a consolidated main screen for favorite contacts and call history.

The Camera app sports a more streamlined design, with its controls becoming visible only after a user performs a swipe-up gesture, offering a cleaner visual experience for capturing photos and videos.

Wider Compatibility and Ecosystem Updates

The new operating system will support a range of Apple smartphones, from the iPhone 11 and iPhone SE models up to the latest devices. This broad compatibility ensures a wide user base can benefit from the advancements in iOS 26.

In tandem with iOS 26, Apple has also launched public beta versions for its other operating systems, including macOS, iPadOS, and watchOS. This synchronized release suggests a unified vision for Apple’s software ecosystem this year.

As of Q1 2024, over 85% of active iPhones were running iOS 17, indicating strong user adoption of new software updates once they become stable and widely available (StatCounter Global Stats).

Anticipation for Fall Launch

The final releases of iOS 26 and the accompanying operating systems are anticipated in the latter half of September. This timing aligns with Apple’s traditional September product event, where the highly awaited iPhone 17 lineup is expected to be unveiled.