Explore everything about iOS 26—from public beta release, AI-powered features, and security upgrades to which iPhones can and can’t run Apple’s latest update.
What Is iOS 26?
iOS 26 is Apple’s next-generation operating system for iPhones, designed to boost performance, enhance AI functionality, and elevate user privacy. With deeper integration of AI, better cross-device syncing, and advanced iOS 26 security features, the update sets a new standard for iPhone software.
But which iPhones can’t run iOS 26, and what’s new in the iOS 26 Beta 3 and iOS 18.6 Beta 2 (for iPads)? Let’s dive in.
iOS 26 Public Beta Release Date & Timeline
Apple follows a predictable release pattern for iOS updates. Here’s the timeline for iOS 26:
- Developer Beta: Released June 10, 2025 (WWDC)
- iOS 26 Public Beta Release Date: July 8, 2025
- iOS 26 Official Release Date: Mid-September 2025 (with iPhone 17 series)
What’s New in iOS 26 Security?
One of the most important aspects of Apple iOS 26 is its enhanced security. As digital threats evolve, so does Apple’s protection strategy.
Top iOS 26 Security Enhancements:
- Privacy Vault: A secure, biometric-locked space for sensitive apps, messages, or media.
- Improved App Tracking Controls: More granular control over data permissions and ad tracking.
- On-Device AI Processing: Reduces cloud dependencies, minimizing exposure to data leaks.
- End-to-end encrypted iCloud backups are now enabled by default.
- Real-Time Threat Detection: AI-powered alerts for potential phishing or malicious activity.
These iOS 26 security features position it as the safest iPhone OS yet.
iOS 26 Beta 3 and iOS 18.6 Beta 2: What’s New?
Apple recently released iOS 26 Beta 3 and iPadOS 18.6 Beta 2, both offering stability improvements and feature refinements. Here’s a brief on what you can expect:
iOS 26 Beta 3:
- Improved Siri performance with better follow-up question handling.
- Expanded support for Privacy Vault to third-party apps.
- Bug fixes for lock screen widgets and app crashes.
iOS 18.6 Beta 2 (iPad):
- New collaboration tools for Apple Notes and Pages.
- Enhanced multitasking UI.
- Performance and battery efficiency updates.
Both betas are available through the Apple Developer Program and Apple Beta Software Program.
Which iPhones Can Run iOS 26?
Apple has confirmed that the following models support iOS 26:
- iPhone 15 / 15 Plus / 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 / 14 Plus / 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 / 13 mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 / 12 mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd Gen)
Which iPhones Can’t Run iOS 26?
If you’re still using one of the following devices, it’s time to consider an upgrade:
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8 / 8 Plus
- iPhone 7, 6s, and earlier
- iPhone SE (1st Gen)
These devices lack the A13 Bionic chip or newer, which is required to handle iOS 26’s advanced AI and security features.
How to Download iOS 26 Beta
Try iOS 26 Beta 3 by enrolling in the Apple Beta Software Program.
- Visit beta.apple.com.
- Sign in with your Apple ID.
- Enroll your device.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install the iOS 26 Public Beta.
Tip: Use a secondary device for testing, as beta versions may contain bugs.
People Also Ask
What is the iOS 26 public beta release date?
The public beta for iOS 26 was released on July 8, 2025, via Apple’s Beta Software Program.
What’s new in iOS 26 security?
iOS 26 includes Privacy Vault, real-time threat detection, AI-driven phishing alerts, and encrypted iCloud backups.
Which iPhones can’t run iOS 26?
iPhones below the iPhone 11 and SE (2nd Gen) are not supported—this includes iPhone X, 8, and older.
What’s in iOS 26 Beta 3 and iOS 18.6 Beta 2?
iOS 26 Beta 3 adds AI and Siri refinements, while iPadOS 18.6 Beta 2 enhances multitasking and collaboration.
How do I download iOS 26 beta?
Go to beta.apple.com, enroll your iPhone, and download it through your device settings.
Final Thoughts
iOS 26 is Apple’s most forward-thinking iPhone update, combining AI power with top-tier security, smarter personalization, and tighter cross-device integration. With iOS 26 Beta 3 now available and the official release just months away, now is the perfect time to explore whether your device is ready—or if it’s time to upgrade.
Stay protected. Stay ahead. Stay iOS 26 ready.