Apple's iOS 26 public beta is available next month

Apple's WWDC is here and with it comes some of the company's biggest operational developments — along with confirmation of when you can check them out in beta. This year's WWDC brings the awaited news of a visual overhaul that is platform-wide, with changes like round icons on the home screen and Control Center.

The company has launched its first major redesign since iOS 7, calling it "our broadest design update ever." The new uniform design across all devices includes a new material called liquid glass. This translucent design theme shows up across OSes on widgets, icons and even through a new all-clear mode, available alongside the light and dark modes. 

Apple has further confirmed the rumors that it's changing the names of its operating systems. So, instead of getting the iOS 19 this fall, it will be the iOS 26, representing Apple's system for the year ahead. The same is true for all other devices' operating systems, like the iPadOS 26, MacOS 26 and so on. However, Apple is sticking with its California-themed names for MacOS, naming the next version Tahoe.

WWDC has revealed a range of iOS 26 updates, including typing indicators for group chats and live translations on iMessage, FaceTime and calls, even if the other person doesn't have an iPhone. 

So, when can you see some of these changes for yourself? Betas for all of Apple’s platforms (iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS and tvOS) are available today through the Apple Developer Program, while a public beta should roll our next month through the Apple Beta Software Program. 

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