How to Install and Safely Test the iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 Beta

Apple has opened up iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 for adventurous users ready to explore the future of iPhone and iPad software.

If you want early access to features like Apple Intelligence upgrades and the new Liquid Glass interface, you can install the developer beta right now. But before you leap, it’s important to protect your data and understand what you’re getting into.

Follow these steps to get started—and know how to back out if something goes wrong.

Step 1: Check Device Compatibility

First, make sure your iPhone or iPad is eligible for iOS 26 or iPadOS 26.
You’ll need:

• A supported device (check Apple’s official list)
• iOS/iPadOS 16.4 or later already installed
• An Apple ID signed in on your device

Pro Tip: Use a secondary device for beta testing, as betas can break critical apps and features.

Step 2: Back Up Your Data

Betas are unstable by nature. Always back up your device before you install—this allows you to return to a safe, working version if needed.

To Back Up Using iCloud:

1. Connect to Wi-Fi.
2. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
3. Tap Back Up Now.
4. When finished, turn off Back Up This iPhone/iPad to keep your archive safe from being overwritten by future betas.

To Back Up Using a Computer:

On a Mac (macOS Catalina or later):

1. Plug your device in with a USB-C or Lightning cable.
2. Open Finder and select your device.
3. Under General, choose Back up all of the data on your iPhone/iPad to this Mac.
4. (Optional) Select Encrypt local backup to include passwords and health data.
5. Click Back Up Now.
6. Archive the backup so it isn’t replaced by future updates.

On Windows:

1. Use the Apple Devices app (Windows 10 version 19045.0 or later)
2. Follow similar steps as above.

Step 3: Enroll in the Beta Program

You need to join the Apple Developer Program. A free account is enough to access the beta.

1. Visit developer.apple.com and sign in.
2. Register your device if prompted.

Step 4: Install the Beta (Over the Air)

1. On your device, go to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates.
2. Select iOS 26 Developer Beta or iPadOS 26 Developer Beta.
3. If your Apple ID isn’t recognized, tap to switch accounts.
4. Return to the Software Update screen.
5. Tap Update Now and follow the prompts to install.

Alternative: Install Beta with IPSW (Mac Only)

If over-the-air installation doesn’t work, you can use a Mac to install the beta manually:

1. Download the correct restore image (IPSW file) from Apple’s developer downloads.
2. Connect your device to your Mac.
3. Open Finder and select your device.
4. Hold the Option key and click Check for Update.
5. Select the IPSW file.
6. Wait while your device updates and restarts.

Step 5: Keep Your Beta Up to Date

Once you’re running the beta, new updates arrive automatically.
To check manually, go to Settings > General > Software Update

Step 6: How to Opt Out or Downgrade

If you encounter serious problems or want to return to the regular release:

1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates and select Off.
2. When a new stable iOS/iPadOS version is released, you’ll receive it automatically.
3. For immediate downgrade:
   • Connect your device to your Mac or PC.
   • Open Finder (Mac) or Apple Devices (PC), select your device.
   • Click Restore iPhone/iPad and choose your archived backup.
   • Follow prompts, entering your backup password if needed.

Note: Apple Watches can’t be downgraded after installing a watchOS beta.

Step 7: Reporting Bugs and Feedback

• The Feedback Assistant app appears with beta builds. Use it to report any issues directly to Apple.
• To test third-party beta apps, use the TestFlight app—developers can invite up to 10,000 testers.

Important Reminders Before You Dive In

• Expect app crashes, battery drains, and other glitches.
• Never use a mission-critical device for beta testing.
• Always keep an archived backup in case you need to revert.

Testing the iOS 26 or iPadOS 26 beta means you get to explore the future of Apple’s platforms ahead of the crowd—and your feedback can help shape what’s coming for everyone this fall.