iOS 26 Arrives: How to Install, Key Features, Phone List
Apple’s iOS 26 beta is out with AI tools, new design, and smart call handling. See supported iPhones, features, and how to install it today.
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Apple has officially released the first developer beta of iOS 26, following the conclusion of its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 25). This marks a substantial leap in iPhone software evolution, skipping directly from iOS 18 to iOS 26 to align version numbering across platforms and reflect significant changes.
The early beta is now accessible for developers and technically inclined users, offering a first look at Apple’s redesigned interface and embedded artificial intelligence features.
A key highlight is the new design system called Liquid Glass, which brings a unified, translucent visual style to all Apple devices. The interface overhaul is complemented by tools like integrated Live Translation in Messages and FaceTime, enabling real-time language conversion during conversations.
iOS 26 introduces smarter call handling with Call Screening, which engages unknown callers, captures the purpose of the call, and shows a real-time transcript. Hold Assist monitors calls placed on hold and notifies the user when a representative is available.
These features, along with others, indicate Apple’s push to embed Apple Intelligence deeply into its software ecosystem, though the full suite of AI capabilities will only function on specific models.
Devices starting from iPhone 11 and newer are eligible for the iOS 26 update. Models running the A13 Bionic chip or later can install the beta, while Apple Intelligence features are restricted to iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and all forthcoming iPhone 17 variants.
List of Compatible Devices:
* iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
* iPhone 12 series
* iPhone 13 series
* iPhone SE (2nd gen and later)
* iPhone 14 series
* iPhone 15 series
* iPhone 16 series
* iPhone 17 series (upcoming)
Though the developer beta is now freely available, Apple cautions users about the potential risks of installing early builds. Common issues include app crashes, battery drain, overheating, and general instability. Users are advised to:
* Verify device compatibility (iPhone 11 or newer)
* Ensure the device runs iOS 18.5
* Secure a stable Wi-Fi connection
* Clear at least 15GB of free storage
* Archive a complete device backup using Finder on macOS or iTunes on Windows
In case of performance issues, users may need to restore their devices to iOS 18.5 and recover data using the archived backup.
Apple has removed the previous $99 developer account barrier. To begin:
1. Navigate to the Apple Developer website using Safari on your iPhone.
2. Sign in with your Apple ID under the "Account" section.
3. Accept terms and activate Developer Mode in Settings > Privacy and Security.
After registration:
* Open Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates
* Select iOS 26 Developer Beta
* Download and install the update
The iOS 26 beta update file is approximately 15.28GB. Once installed, the device restarts into the latest beta version.
Apple plans to roll out a public beta of iOS 26 in July. A stable, general release is expected alongside the iPhone 17 launch later this year.
