Argomenti trattati
Apple has taken a significant step by allowing free beta access to its latest software for non-developers. While this opens the door for many tech enthusiasts to explore what’s next in iOS and iPadOS, it comes with a caveat: installations should be done with care, particularly on testing devices, and always with a backup ready.
What’s new in iOS 26 and iPadOS 26?
Following the recent WWDC 2025 event, Apple officially released the first developer betas of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26. What’s exciting this year is that anyone can access these beta versions without needing to be a registered developer. This shift significantly simplifies the installation process for those eager to experiment with the new features. However, it’s crucial to remember that these are still development versions of the software, meaning they may be unstable and lack some functionalities that will be included in the final release. So, it’s advisable not to install them on your primary device.
The upcoming versions bring some highly anticipated changes. For instance, the new “Liquid Glass” design offers transparent elements and smoother animations. The user interface has undergone a radical transformation, promising a more modern experience, but it will take some time to get accustomed to these changes. In addition to the aesthetic upgrades, iOS 26 introduces enhancements to apps like Messages and a new Games app. Meanwhile, iPadOS 26 finally features an advanced window management system, allowing users to resize and organize apps for multitasking, much like on a desktop. It also includes a new menu bar for easier control.
Device compatibility and installation process
Apple has confirmed that iOS 26 will be available for all iPhones starting from the iPhone 11 and the second-generation iPhone SE. iPadOS 26 will support a range of models, from the iPad Pro with the M4 chip to the eighth-generation standard iPad. This means many relatively recent devices will be able to enjoy the new features without needing hardware upgrades.
Here’s a look at some of the primary supported devices:
- iPhone 11 and newer models
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
- iPad Pro (M4 chip)
- eighth-generation iPad and newer
Apple has streamlined the process for downloading and installing the beta versions of iOS and iPadOS. Before you begin, ensure your iPhone or iPad is running at least iOS 16.4 (or the equivalent iPadOS version). Here are the main steps:
Step-by-step installation guide
- Backup your device to prevent data loss.
- Visit the Apple Developer website or the appropriate beta page.
- Enroll your device in the beta program.
- Download the beta profile to your device.
- Restart your device to apply the beta profile.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update to find the beta download.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Important considerations
While the prospect of testing out new features is exciting, it’s essential to understand the risks involved with beta software. As mentioned, these versions are intended for testing purposes and may contain bugs or issues that could affect your device’s performance. Always ensure you have a backup and consider using a secondary device for the beta installation. This approach allows you to explore the new features without risking your everyday usability.
With the new iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 beta versions now available, there’s much to look forward to in terms of new functionality and design. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast eager to try the latest features or simply curious about what’s coming next, this is an exciting time for Apple users.