Apple released iOS 26 Beta 5 to developers on August 5, 2025, advancing its next major iPhone operating system. This beta refines features introduced at WWDC 2025, preparing for the public launch in mid-September alongside the iPhone 17 series. Below, we break down what’s new, key iOS 26 features, and how developers can test this beta.
Overview of iOS 26
Announced on June 9, 2025, iOS 26 brings a bold new design, enhanced Apple Intelligence, and updates to apps like Phone, Messages, and Maps. It’s set to launch with the iPhone 17, offering a refreshed user experience. The beta program lets developers test apps early to ensure compatibility.
Key Features in iOS 26
iOS 26 introduces changes across design, apps, system features, and security. Here are the highlights:
Liquid Glass Design
- New Look: iOS 26 replaces the flat iOS 7 design with Liquid Glass, a neumorphic style inspired by visionOS. It uses translucent, rounded elements that reflect light with subtle animations.
- Interface Updates: App icons, menus, and navigation bars adopt this design for a modern, immersive feel.
Apple Intelligence Enhancements
- AI Capabilities: Apple Intelligence now supports more languages, including English, French, German, and Japanese.
- Key Features:
- Live Translation: Translate conversations in real-time.
- Genmoji: Create custom emojis by combining existing ones.
- ChatGPT Integration: Improves AI responses for complex queries.
- Developer Access: The Foundation Models framework lets developers add AI to apps with minimal Swift code.
App-Specific Updates
iOS 26 updates core apps for better functionality. Here’s a summary:
| App | Updates |
|---|---|
| Phone | Call Screening, Hold Assist, real-time translation, haptic feedback. |
| Messages | Custom backgrounds, group chat polls, typing indicators, spam filtering. |
| Music | Pinned favorites, live lyrics translation, AutoMix transitions, Live Radio. |
| Photos | New layout with Library and Collections tabs, 3D photo effects. |
| Camera | Simplified interface, Lens Cleaning Hints, expandable command bar. |
| Maps | Preferred Routes, saved favorite places. |
| Safari | Floating tab style, HDR image support, SVG icons. |
| Wallet | Boarding passes with airport maps, real-time flight info, digital passport. |
System Features
- Battery: Adaptive Power Mode adjusts brightness and performance to save energy. Daily usage is color-coded (orange for high, blue for typical).
- Accessibility: Reader Mode for vision impairments, Braille Access, Head Tracking for pointer control.
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi Aware for device discovery, Captive Assist for shared Wi-Fi logins.
- Screenshots: Full-screen preview mode, HDR capture support.
- eSIM Transfer: Simplified transfer between iPhone and Android.
Security and Privacy
- Wired Accessories: New permission settings for locked devices.
- Blocked Contacts: Centralized management across apps.
- Recovery Assistant: Automatic recovery for startup failures.
- Quantum-secure TLS: Default encryption for better security.
What’s New in iOS 26 Beta 5
Released on August 5, 2025 (build 23A5308g), iOS 26 Beta 5 focuses on:
- Liquid Glass Tweaks: Improved legibility and visual polish for the translucent interface.
- Performance: Faster app launches, fewer crashes, and better battery efficiency.
- Minor Updates: Refined menu organization and accessibility options.
Apple may release betas weekly after Beta 5 to speed up testing before the September launch.
How to Install iOS 26 Beta 5
Developers can install iOS 26 Beta 5 via the Apple Developer Program. Follow these steps:
- Join the Program: Sign up at developer.apple.com.
- Download Beta Profile: Get the iOS 26 beta profile from beta.apple.com.
- Install Profile: Open the profile on your iPhone and follow the instructions.
- Update Device: Go to Settings > General > Software Update and select iOS 26 Beta 5.
Note: Beta software may have bugs. Use a secondary device and back up your data.
Compatible Devices
iOS 26 requires an Apple A13 Bionic chip or newer, supporting iPhone 11 and later. Apple Intelligence features need an A17 Pro chip or newer (iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 16 models).
Supported Devices
- iPhone SE (2nd gen+)
- iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 series
- Not Supported: iPhone XS, XS Max, XR (due to A12 chip).
Developer Testing and Feedback
Developers should test apps on iOS 26 Beta 5 to ensure compatibility with new APIs. Use the Feedback Assistant app to report issues, helping Apple refine the OS before launch.
Conclusion
iOS 26 Beta 5 brings developers closer to the final version, refining the Liquid Glass design and enhancing performance. With new app features and Apple Intelligence, iOS 26 will improve the iPhone experience. Developers should test now to prepare for the mid-September 2025 launch.
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