Apple has rolled out a minor update to its first developer beta of iOS 26, just days after the initial release during WWDC 2025. While the update doesn’t add any new features, it likely addresses early bugs or critical issues that emerged from initial developer testing.
This updated build, moving from version 23A5260n to 23A5260u, still counts as “beta 1.” These letter changes typically indicate behind-the-scenes tweaks—likely a fix for a security vulnerability or a bug significant enough to warrant immediate attention but not enough to justify calling it “beta 2.”
As expected, the first iOS 26 developer beta includes all the headline features Apple previewed at WWDC: the new Liquid Glass interface effect, redesigned Phone app, overhauled Camera and Photos experience, and deeper system-level integration of Apple Intelligence features. But as with any early-stage software, there are bound to be hiccups—crashes, sluggish performance, and features that don’t quite work as advertised yet.
If you’re a developer—or just someone with a high tolerance for unstable software—you can download the iOS 26 developer beta now. You don’t need to pay the $99 for Apple’s full developer program anymore; a free developer account is enough. Simply install the Apple Developer app from the App Store, sign in, and enable the beta under Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates.
For most users, though, the public beta will be the safer bet. That version is expected to launch sometime in July, once Apple has a few more rounds of feedback and stability improvements under its belt. When it’s ready, signing up is straightforward: register at Apple’s Beta Software Program site with your Apple ID, enroll your device, and then look for the iOS Public Beta option in Software Update.
The full release of iOS 26 is slated for this fall, likely landing around the same time as the next iPhone launch. Until then, early adopters can continue putting the new features through their paces—just don’t forget to back up your data before diving in.
