iOS 26 Public Beta Release Date: When to Expect Apple’s Latest iPhone Software
Updated July 22 with new insights from a reliable leak pinpointing the expected launch window for the iOS 26 public beta.
At its June keynote, Apple unveiled iOS 26, the next major iteration of its iPhone operating system, set for a full public release this fall. With its highly anticipated design overhaul, eager users won’t have to wait much longer to experience it firsthand—the first public beta is imminent.
A recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, combined with the rollout of the fourth developer beta, suggests the public beta could arrive as soon as this week. Here’s what we know.
iOS 26 Public Beta: Expected Timeline
Apple traditionally follows a structured release schedule, beginning with developer betas before transitioning to a public beta phase. This year, iOS 26’s first public beta was slated for July, with the stable release arriving in the fall alongside the iPhone 17 series and remaining compatible with the iPhone 16 lineup and older models.
While the public beta typically arrives by mid-July, Gurman noted a slight delay this year, likely due to the significant redesign in iOS 26. In his Power On newsletter, he stated:
“All signs point to iOS 26 entering public beta this week. Though it’s later than usual, the delay makes sense given the scale of changes. Apple appears to be refining the software further before broadening access.”
Why the Delay? A More Stable Build
Unlike previous years, where the public beta was based on the third developer beta, Gurman suggests Apple may instead use the fourth developer beta as its foundation this time. This shift implies a more polished experience for public testers, aligning with reports of ongoing refinements to Liquid Glass, iOS 26’s flagship design feature.
With the fourth developer beta now live (released at 10 a.m. PT on July 22), the public beta is expected to follow shortly. Gurman predicts a July 23 release, while other indicators suggest it could land as early as July 22 or 24, depending on final adjustments.
Supporting Evidence: A Credible Leak
Adding weight to this timeline, MacRumors’ Joe Rossignol reported on July 21 that a proven anonymous source shared accurate build numbers for the fourth developer beta—a pattern that has preceded past beta releases. Historically, this leaker’s information surfaces just one day before a beta goes live, further reinforcing this week’s expected rollout.