Apple has finally made the release candidate build of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 available to developers, which means that we will be getting the update next week. The ninth developer beta of the aforementioned updates arrived last week, which was quite a surprise as the company typically seeds 8 beta updates before offering the release candidate version. If you are a developer, you can download and install the update right now on your compatible iPhone and iPad.
iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 introduce the Liquid Glass redesign and powerful new features for iPhone and iPad users
iOS 26 is a major update, and it brings a plethora of upgrades to the table, including the new Liquid Glass redesign. To install the release candidate build on your iPhone or iPad, all you have to do is simply head over to the stock Settings app on your device and head over to General > Software Update > Beta Updates and then follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the updates. Before you begin the process, be sure to link your Apple ID to your Developer Account; otherwise, you will not receive the OTA update on your device. Also, the installation process for the updates is the same for iPhones and iPads.
As mentioned, iOS 26 is a significant upgrade considering the number of front-facing features it brings to the iPhone. The Liquid Glass redesign is a fresh look, which will give your device a brand-new feel, even on older models. However, this is not all, as the company has also added a plethora of features and extensions for existing features, which include the Messages app, Photos app, Camera app, and much more. Even though Apple Intelligence has not received a significant upgrade this year, the company made sure that the update houses other utility-based features.
Similarly, iPadOS 26 is an equally important update for the iPad, as it not only boasts the same Liquid Glass redesign, but the company has also made it a powerhouse with some pretty major changes. iPadOS 26 is the first update that will make the iPad directly compete against a Mac or a laptop. Apple’s ‘What’s a Computer’ campaign would finally advocate the iPad’s new look and feature set. We get proper windowing in iPadOS 26 that works the same as macOS. Additionally, the company has also added a Menu bar on top, the same one that Apple brags about on a Mac. There are a handful of new productivity features and tools that you can check out, so be sure to explore those as well.
Other than iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, Apple has also released macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 release candidate builds to developers. We are covering the event extensively, so be sure to stick around for more.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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