You can now download all of Apple’s 2026 iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch software updates

Apple has released the first public beta preview versions of the software it announced at its WWDC 25 developer event back in early June. So you’re now able to preview the next big iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad and Mac operating systems months before their proper, full release – those are called iOS 26, watchOS 26 and iPadOS 26 plus macOS 26 Tahoe.

You’ll need to opt into public beta updates on your device as well as have devices fit enough to run the OS:

• iOS 26 system requirements – can Apple’s latest software run on your iPhone?
• Apple watchOS 26 system requirements: will it run on your Apple Watch?
• iPadOS 26 system requirements – can Apple’s latest software run on your iPad?
• Apple macOS 26 Tahoe system requirements – can it run on your Mac?

If you’re an Apple TV or HomePod afficionado, then tvOS 26 is also available. Apple isn’t releasing a public version of the pre-release software for the Apple Vision Pro, however. The final software versions will also include updates for AirPods and HomePod, though it’s not clear if these updates will be available in the public betas.

A new look and feel for the software is the key new feature this time around. Called Liquid Glass, it brings a new look and feel to Apple’s operating systems. The iPadOS 26 update is intriguing for us because it some new multitaking additions that we’ve long wanted, though it’s still got a little way to go until it’s as flexible as a Mac.

As ever, it’s strongly recommended that you do not install beta software on your primary device – especially your everyday iPhone, since any mishaps could leave you without a working phone or maybe have an annoying quirk you can’t get rid of. You have been warned!

Also read: Got an Intel-based Mac? Here’s why you’ll want to replace it over the next couple of years

Dan Grabham Editor-in-Chief

About

Dan is Editor-in-chief of Stuff, working across the magazine and the Stuff.tv website.  Our Editor-in-Chief is a regular at tech shows such as CES in Las Vegas, IFA in Berlin and Mobile World Congress in Barcelona as well as at other launches and events. He has been a CES Innovation Awards judge. Dan is completely platform agnostic and very at home using and writing about Windows, macOS, Android and iOS/iPadOS plus lots and lots of gadgets including audio and smart home gear, laptops and smartphones. He's also been interviewed and quoted in a wide variety of places including The Sun, BBC World Service, BBC News Online, BBC Radio 5Live, BBC Radio 4, Sky News Radio and BBC Local Radio.

Areas of expertise

Computing, mobile, audio, smart home