Apple has launched iPadOS 26 beta 8 for developers, likely the penultimate beta prior to the release candidate (RC) arriving next month. The testing phase for iPadOS 26 is approaching its conclusion, with the software update accessible to beta testers since early June. With September on the horizon, the software is nearly primed for public release.
The arrival of beta 8 may indicate the final beta before the RC version is revealed, mirroring a pattern observed with last year’s iPadOS 18. In that case, beta 8 was issued in the last week of August, with no further betas until the RC was presented following Apple’s September event. This year is predicted to mirror that path.
The most recent beta is expected to be the most stable version yet, as Apple has focused on rectifying bugs and enhancing stability in the latest betas. Nevertheless, there are always further fixes that could be applied. If Apple sticks to its typical timeline, the iPadOS 26 RC will be disclosed shortly after the company’s September event, anticipated to feature the iPhone 17 lineup, Apple Watch Ultra 3, Series 11, AirPods Pro 3, and possibly the M5 iPad Pro.
Invitations for the event are expected to be dispatched soon, and September 9 is currently anticipated as the keynote date.
In summary, the iPadOS 26 beta has demonstrated encouraging stability and performance, and users are urged to share their feedback in the comments.
