Highlights
iOS 26 Beta Release: Key Updates and Installation Guide
iOS 26 is now available with the latest beta releases including Developer Beta 7 and Public Beta 4 for download. These updates come shortly after the last beta release, focusing on minor enhancements rather than introducing significant new features.
Blood Oxygen Monitoring Returns
A notable enhancement is the reinstatement of blood oxygen monitoring for Apple Watch users in the United States. Previously, this feature was disabled due to a legal dispute with health technology firm Masimo, which limited SpO2 readings for Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 models sold within the country. Reports suggest that Apple has revamped the system to compute data via the paired iPhone, allowing results to be viewed in the Health app.
Adaptive Power Notifications
Another addition is a new toggle for Adaptive Power Notifications located in the battery settings. This mode, first introduced with iOS 26, aims to prolong battery performance by making adjustments such as dimming the display, slowing down certain processes, or activating Low Power Mode when battery levels hit 20 percent. With the newly introduced setting, users can opt to receive notifications each time this mode becomes active.
Improved Messages App
The Messages app has acquired a Drafts filter in the “Filter by” menu. This enhancement enables users to more easily view conversations that contain unsent messages.
Interface Tweaks and Availability
In addition to these updates, various minor interface adjustments have been identified throughout the system. The update is designated with the build number 23A5326a.
The iOS 26 beta is compatible with a broad spectrum of iPhones, ranging from the iPhone 11 series up to the newly released iPhone 16 models. However, Apple Intelligence features will remain limited to the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and the iPhone 16 lineup.
Steps to Install iOS 26 Public Beta
To explore the newly introduced features, users can join the Apple Beta Software Programme. The installation steps for the beta version are as follows:
- Sign up at the Apple Beta Software Programme website.
- On the iPhone, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Tap on Beta Updates and select iOS 26 Public Beta.
- Return to the Software Update screen and wait for the beta version to appear.
- Agree to the terms and conditions to initiate the download.
Once the download is complete, the installation process will begin automatically. It is recommended that users back up their devices prior to installing any beta software.
The stable version of iOS 26 is anticipated to be released later this year as a free over-the-air (OTA) update for supported devices.