iOS 26 beta 3 is released to developers with new wallpapers and more

As is tradition, Apple released beta versions of its new operating systems to developers on the first day of WWDC on June 9. Beta 1 is for developers only–the public beta will begin in July, probably after two or three developer-only betas.

The first beta release of iOS 26 has everything Apple demonstrated in its WWDC keynote: Liquid Glass, the new Phone app and features, the new Camera and Photos experience, and more.

There are plenty of bugs and unrefined areas, as you would expect with the first beta release of a major new operating system update. Not everything is working as it should, and it is not advised to run this version of the OS unless you’re a developer or have a high tolerance for buggy or unoptimized software.

You can read all about all the new features in our iOS 26 superguide and find out the latest information about the iOS beta including when it will launch and how to install it in a separate story.

Update July 7: Apple has released iOS 26 beta 3. This is still a developers-only release. The public beta is scheduled to start in July; it could be this build and arrive as soon as tomorrow, or it could come another week or two.

What’s new in the latest beta release

Here’s what’s new in the third beta of iOS 26:

• There are now four color styles for the iOS 26 wallpaper: Shadow, Sky, Halo, and Dusk.
• There are further tweaks to the “liquid glass” effect and layout for better legibility.

iOS 26: How to install the public beta

The iOS 26 public beta test is expected to begin in July, but you can sign up now so you’re ready for it.

1. Click Sign Up on the Apple Beta page and register with your Apple ID.
2. Log in to the Beta Software Program.
3. Click Enroll your iOS device.
4. Open the Settings app, tap General, then Software Update.
5. In the Beta Updates section, select the iOS Public Beta.

It may take a few moments after registering for the beta option to appear in Software Update.

iOS 26: How to install the developer beta

You’ll need to be registered as an Apple developer, but a free developer account will do. You can get one via Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Here’s how to do it via the Apple Developer app:

1. Download the Apple Developer App from the App Store.
2. Open the app.
3. Tap on Account.
4. Sign in using your usual Apple ID.

Find out everything you need to know about iOS 18 in our iOS 26 superguide.