Apple is skipping version numbers and going straight to iOS 26, and it’s not just a marketing move. The iOS 26 beta 2 release signals a shift toward syncing version numbers with calendar years — similar to car models — and packs in some serious upgrades.
With a fall release expected, Apple is already letting users test-drive the latest features in the beta program. But will your iPhone be able to handle the leap?
Liquid Glass: The redesign you can’t ignore
Out of everything announced at WWDC this year, the new Liquid Glass design was the star of the show.
Apple calls it a translucent material, but Liquid Glass is more than just a visual refresh. Home and lock screens now feature see-through apps and widgets that adjust based on your lighting environment.
Floating buttons in apps like Phone and Maps also make the interface cleaner and more modern. Though comparisons to Windows Vista’s Aero style are floating around, this version feels more fluid — and yes, you can adjust the transparency.
Major usability boosts in everyday apps
iOS 26 beta 2 doesn’t just look different — it works smarter. The Phone app is now redesigned, showing contacts, call logs, and voicemails on one screen. Hold Assist lets you do other tasks while it waits for a representative to answer your call.
Live Translation is also live in beta. “iOS 26 is bringing the ability to have a conversation via phone call or text message with someone who speaks another language.”
Messages also get upgraded with spam filtering for unknown senders and built-in polling for group chats. No more chaos when trying to decide where to eat or who’s driving.
Photos and Visual Intelligence catch up
In response to user feedback, Apple is restoring the Photos app’s tabbed layout. “Library and Collections will have their own separate spaces so you don’t have to scroll to infinity to find what you’re looking for.”
Visual Intelligence is one of the most exciting additions. Snap a screenshot of something interesting — like sneakers on Instagram — and iOS will help you find that exact pair (or something similar) online.
How to try iOS 26 beta 2 today
“The iOS 26 public beta will become available in July via the Apple Beta Software Program.” Head to beta.apple.com to register with your Apple ID.
Once enrolled, go to SETTINGS > GENERAL > SOFTWARE UPDATE and install iOS 26 PUBLIC BETA. But beware: it’s not final software. Use a secondary device if you want to avoid bugs.
When does the final version drop?
September is the usual release window, typically one week after Apple’s iPhone keynote. If history repeats, we’ll see iOS 26 roll out mid-month — likely alongside the next-gen iPhones.
From Liquid Glass to smarter messaging and powerful new tools, iOS 26 beta 2 gives us a glimpse of Apple’s software future. Whether you’re excited about aesthetics or productivity, this upgrade is shaping up to be one of the most notable yet.
Which iPhones support iOS 26 beta 2?
If you’re using an iPhone from 2019 or later, you’re eligible for iOS 26 beta 2. However, devices like iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max are no longer supported. Here’s the full list of supported iPhones for iOS 26 beta 2:
- iPhone SE (second generation or later)
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16e
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
The upcoming iPhone 17 — or iPhone 26 (if renamed) — is expected this September.
When will iOS 26 officially launch?
iOS 26 beta 2 is available now, but avoid installing it on your main iPhone due to potential bugs in pre-release software.
The final version is expected this fall, likely in September, shortly after Apple’s annual iPhone event. Last year’s update dropped one week after the iPhone 16 reveal, and iOS 26 is expected to follow a similar timeline.