After a month of beta testing, Apple is anticipated to launch the iOS 26 public beta either on Monday or in the coming days. If the company follows its typical schedule, the public test version will be released a week after the developer build’s beta 3.
Here are the dates the company launched its public beta in prior years:
– **iOS 15:** June 30, 2021
– **iOS 16:** July 11, 2022
– **iOS 17:** July 12, 2023
– **iOS 18:** July 15, 2024
### Important: Review this before updating to iOS 26 public beta
Although Apple’s newest iOS 26 beta 3 offers more stability compared to earlier iterations, you may encounter issues such as app incompatibilities, increased battery consumption, or other unforeseen problems.
While downgrading from the iOS 26 public beta back to the latest iOS 18 version is possible, you may lose your WhatsApp backup. Furthermore, if you opt to install the watchOS 26 public beta, downgrading your iPhone will require unpairing your Apple Watch.
Consequently, *BGR* advises against installing the public beta on your primary device, particularly if this is your first attempt.
### First, register for the Apple Beta Software Program
To initiate testing of the iOS 26 public beta, you must enroll in the Apple Beta Software Program. You can sign up even prior to the update becoming available. By utilizing your Apple Account, you can connect it to the beta program and explore new features ahead of their official launch.
Simply visit the [Apple Beta Software Program](https://beta.apple.com/) website with your Apple Account and follow the steps to prepare your iPhone.
### Step-by-step instructions: How to install iOS 26 public beta
1. First, ensure your enrollment in the [Apple Beta Software Program](https://beta.apple.com/)
2. On your iPhone, launch the **Settings** app
3. Tap on **General**, then navigate to **Software Update**
4. Select **Beta Updates** and enable iOS 26 Public Beta
### Compatible devices
The following devices support the iOS 26 public beta:
– iPhone 11
– iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max
– iPhone SE (2nd gen)
– iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12
– iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max
– iPhone 13 mini and iPhone 13
– iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max
– iPhone SE (3rd gen)
– iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus
– iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max
– iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus
– iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
– iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus
– iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max
– iPhone 16e
