iOS 26 public beta has been available for several days now, but I’ve been experimenting with iOS 26 since the initial developer beta. Apple has made significant improvements over the last two months, but it still remains imperfect, particularly if you plan to use the software on your main device.
iOS 26 introduces a variety of new features, such as the completely revamped Liquid Glass design, enhanced integration of ChatGPT, new Continuity capabilities when you have iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, or watchOS 26 installed, and more. Nevertheless, making the most of these fresh features requires readiness for all the bugs and complications that come with this beta. After all, this is a test version, and many issues won’t be resolved until Apple launches the official version later this year.
While the overall experience should improve significantly throughout the beta cycle, there’s a reason Apple doesn’t immediately release this version to the public. Indeed, we’ve identified six reasons to bypass the iOS 26 public beta and hold out for the official release later this fall.