iPhone 16e, iPhone Air, M5 iPad Pro Blocked from iOS 26.2 Beta Update

At present, Apple is not allowing the use of its newly released developer betas, which are iOS 26.2 and iPadOS 26.2, on some devices with a C1 modem installed, such as the iPhone 16e, iPhone Air, and M5 iPad Pro (Cellular). These devices seem to have the over-the-air updates ready but the installations are not going through.

Apple's release of developer previews for iOS 26.2, iPadOS 26.2, watchOS 26.2, tvOS 26.6, and visionOS 26.2 took place earlier this week; however, the macOS 26.2 beta hasn't even been launched yet. The limitation on devices with the C1 modem was first reported by Aaron Perris on X, and it indeed pointed out an extraordinary restriction regarding the beta distribution.

Currently, Apple is keeping us in the dark as to the reason for the block but it's understood that all devices mentioned are equipped with the same C1 modem. The company has been reached out for a statement and if any response is received then further updates will be provided.