Apple Unveils iOS 26 Public Beta: See Which iPhones Are Supported
Apple has released the public beta of iOS 26, allowing users to explore new features ahead of the official launch. The update is available for select iPhones, giving early adopters a chance to test and provide feedback on the software.
Tl;dr
An Overhaul in Design: Introducing Liquid Glass
Over the past decade, few software updates from Apple have generated such anticipation as the upcoming release of iOS 26. Departing from the long-rumored iOS 19, the Cupertino-based company is set to unveil what it calls the new Liquid Glass interface. For users familiar with previous visual shifts, this update stands out: icons will be refreshed, transparency options and dark elements are being introduced, and certain controls now appear to float elegantly—an aesthetic subtly reminiscent of Windows Vista, but thoroughly reimagined for modern tastes.
A Selective Rollout: Who Gets Left Behind?
That said, not every owner of an iPhone will enjoy these changes. Unlike last year’s more generous compatibility list, three key devices released in 2018—the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max—will not be eligible for this update. In practice, this means that users of these models will no longer receive vital security patches or access to fresh features—a reality that raises obvious concerns about long-term device viability.
For those with newer devices, however, there’s reassurance: all handsets released since 2019 remain supported under iOS 26. According to information confirmed during the June 9 WWDC event and published on the official Apple site, compatible models include:
All versions of the iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, and anticipated upcoming releases including Pro/Max/mini variants
There is still some uncertainty around yet-to-be-announced models—particularly persistent rumors regarding an eventual iPhone 17. These details are expected to crystallize at September’s keynote event.
Main Features & Release Timeline Unveiled
Turning to functionality, a handful of innovations already have early adopters buzzing. Users can expect a reimagined phone app where contacts, call logs, and voicemails coalesce in one streamlined space. The much-anticipated « Hold Assist » » feature is set to notify you when a call finally connects—no more endless waiting on hold. Additionally, the all-new « Live Translate » » brings real-time translation during calls or messages, bridging language gaps seamlessly. And for group chats plagued by indecision? Integrated polling within Messages should end those drawn-out debates over dinner plans.
The rollout plan hews closely to established tradition: after a public beta phase already underway, general availability is slated for September—timed just before new hardware launches.
The Security Trade-Off for Older Devices
Of course, it’s worth pausing over what all this means for users who cling to aging handsets. Opting out of upgrading comes at a cost: « No further corrective updates or recent app support will be offered » ». As security threats multiply and apps evolve rapidly, remaining on unsupported software could become increasingly untenable—a decision not without consequences for both usability and personal safety.