The first developer betas for iOS 26, macOS Tahoe, iPadOS 26, and more are now available

The first developer betas for iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, visionOS 26, and macOS Tahoe are now available if you’re eager to try the updates that Apple just announced.

Everyone will have early access to the new versions of the operating systems when the public betas are released next month, but only developers have access to the betas starting today. As of 2023, Apple no longer requires you to pay for Apple’s developer program to download and install them right away. You just need to enroll your devices in the Apple Beta Software Program by signing in with your Apple account.

Once enrolled, you can access developer betas through the software update sections of Apple’s various devices. On an iPhone, for example, you’ll find them by opening the Settings app and navigating to General > Software Update > Beta Updates, where you’ll be given the option to install the latest version.

Before you install a developer beta, you should understand what you’re getting into. The first versions may not include all of the new features Apple announced during its WWDC 2025 keynote. There may also be stability issues, bugs that result in significant battery drain, and compatibility issues with apps you rely on.

It’s a good idea to try out developer betas on a secondary device. If that’s not an option, make sure your iPhone or iPad is backed up before installing the beta releases.