How do you get iOS 26 Beta on your iPhone?

Apple’s iOS 26 is one of the most anticipated software updates, packed with exciting new features, design changes, and performance improvements. Like every year, Apple allows users to try out the upcoming iOS version before its official release through the iOS Beta Program. If you’re eager to explore iOS 26 before everyone else, you can install the beta on your iPhone with just a few simple steps.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to get iOS 26 Beta on your iPhone safely.

Getting iOS 26 Beta on your iOS devices

Getting iOS 26 Beta on your iPhone (Image via Apple)

Apple provides two main ways to access iOS betas: the Developer Beta and the Public Beta. Here’s how you can install either one:

1) Enroll in Apple’s Beta Program:

Go to the Apple Beta Software Program website on your iPhone’s Safari browser.
Sign in with your Apple ID.
Tap on Enroll Your Devices and select iOS.
Follow the instructions to download the iOS 26 Beta profile.

2) Install the iOS 26 Beta profile:

After downloading, go to Settings > General > Software Update.
Head over to Beta Updates and select the iOS 26 Beta profile and install it.
Restart your iPhone to apply the profile.

3) Download and install iOS 26 Beta:

Once your iPhone restarts, head to Settings > General > Software Update.
You should now see the iOS 26 Beta update available.
Tap Download and Install.

Before installing the iOS 26 Beta on your iPhone, there are some things you should keep in mind like backing up your device, checking its compatibility, keeping it charged, and connected to active internet connection.

Also Read: 5 Things to look forward to in the Apple iPhone 17 series

Which iPhones are compatible with iOS 26?

You must be eager to install the new iOS 26 Beta and try the new features like liquid glass, new Messages features, and other UI redesigns. But before trying this new iOS, you must know whether your device is compatible.

Check the list below to see whether your iPhone is eligible for the new iOS 26:

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 SE 2nd gen
iPhone SE 3rd gen
iPhone 16e
iPhone 16
iPhone 16 Plus
iPhone 16 Pro
iPhone 16 Pro Max

Trying out iOS 26 Beta early gives you a first-hand experience of Apple’s upcoming features before the official release, which is expected to be after iPhone 17 reveal in September 2025. Just remember that since it’s a beta, you might face occasional glitches. However, Apple will release various Beta updates to resolve those issues.

Read more Apple-related articles:

About the author

Ripan Majumdar is an Esports and Gaming writer at Sportskeeda, specializing in covering content related to mobile gaming, gaming tech, MMOs, and sports titles. Though he graduated with a BSc, journalism was his true calling; he has worked as a senior gaming and F1 writer for various sports news websites.

Ripan's love of gaming was sparked by Need for Speed: Most Wanted (2005), a title he often revisits. He's also very fond of the Assassin's Creed Ezio Trilogy and Pokemon Platinum.

Among popular streamers, he particularly admires Rachell "Valkyrae" and is deeply inspired by her.

Ripan's hobbies include making digital paintings, listening to audiobooks, and singing.

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Edited by Ripan Majumdar