Numerous iPhone users are anxiously anticipating the arrival of the first public beta for iOS 26, but Apple is proceeding cautiously. Traditionally, Apple has unveiled the first public beta for significant iOS updates by mid-July. The public beta for iOS 16 was released on July 11, 2022, iOS 17 on July 12, 2023, and iOS 18 on July 15, 2024. Nevertheless, the iOS 26 public beta has encountered delays.
As per Mark Gurman, participants in Apple’s Beta Software Program can expect iOS 26 around July 23. This marks the longest wait for a public beta of a key iOS update following its announcement. Although no detailed reasons have been disclosed for the delay, informed assumptions can be made.
Reflecting on the last ten years of iOS public beta 1 launch dates:
– iOS 9: July 9, 2015
– iOS 10: July 7, 2016
– iOS 11: June 26, 2017
– iOS 12: June 25, 2018
– iOS 13: June 24, 2019
– iOS 14: July 9, 2020
– iOS 15: June 30, 2021
– iOS 16: July 11, 2022
– iOS 17: July 12, 2023
– iOS 18: July 15, 2024
In the past few years, Apple has concentrated on resolving issues before launching the public beta. Considering the importance of iOS 26, with its new naming structure and Liquid Glass redesign, it’s understandable that Apple aims to create a powerful initial impact.
While the feedback regarding iOS 26’s modifications has been favorable, every new developer beta has introduced substantial changes. Concerns regarding the Liquid Glass design concept surfaced after the initial beta, prompting Apple to modify it in the third developer beta. This alteration ignited discussions among iPhone users who appreciated the daring design approach.
Apple is likely striving to achieve a compromise that will please both factions. The postponement of the iOS 26 public beta indicates that this isn’t a mere oversight. However, this remains speculation, and the Liquid Glass design may not be Apple’s primary focus.
Even with the setback, the hope is that it will lead to a more reliable release than typical for the first public beta. In the interim, users can get ready to download the iOS 26 public beta when it eventually becomes available.
