Apple announced its highly anticipated iOS 26 at the annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2025). Since then, a new wave of excitement has swept the tech world. As always, Apple introduced extensive changes to the iPhone operating system. This is expected to elevate the user experience to new heights. The “Liquid Glass” design and advanced Apple Intelligence (AI) features, in particular, have become central to discussions. While the developer beta version is already available, Apple has now released the public beta for general users. It offers iPhone users a glimpse into the future. However, understanding its advantages, disadvantages, and potential risks in detail is crucial before installing this new version.
iOS 26 Public Beta: Key Information at a Glance
- Release: Apple announced iOS 26 at WWDC 2025. It unveiled its public beta in July.
- Design: It brings a new transparent design language called “Liquid Glass.” This adds novelty to app icons, widgets, and the overall interface.
- Apple Intelligence (AI): Apple has integrated powerful AI features like real-time translation, enhanced call screening, and image generation.
- Compatibility: iPhone 11 and later models will support iOS 26. However, some Apple Intelligence features apply only to the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and 16 series.
- Risks & Warnings: The public beta version is not stable. It may contain various bugs that could cause daily usage problems.
iOS 26: A Revolutionary Design Overhaul
The biggest attraction of iOS 26 is its new design language. Apple has named it “Liquid Glass.” Reuters reports that this design draws inspiration from Apple’s visionOS. As a result, app icons, widgets, and other system elements will appear more transparent and vibrant. A report from The New York Times mentions that the Liquid Glass design is not just visually appealing. It also helps users focus more on content. Apple has introduced a “floating” and “pop-out” menu system. This will make navigation easier. The new design also touches the lock screen and home screen. It creates more opportunities for personalization.
Artificial Intelligence: The New Brain of the iPhone
Apple Intelligence is another significant addition to iOS 26. It will take the iPhone’s functionality to a new level. Among its most notable features is ‘Live Translation.’ The BBC’s report notes that this feature provides users with real-time translation during phone calls, FaceTime, and messaging. Importantly, this translation process completes entirely on the device. This ensures the privacy of user data.
Additionally, Apple has added a new feature called ‘Visual Intelligence.’ It helps users ask questions and get information about anything on their screen. For example, one can inquire about product information or location details from a screenshot. For corporate users, ‘Call Screening’ is an excellent feature. The iPhone can now analyze incoming calls to determine which are important and which are spam. Users can choose to avoid these calls or get more information about them.
Apps with a New Look
In iOS 26, Apple has also changed the design and functionality of many of its own apps:
- Camera App: It is now more streamlined and photography-centric. Separate toggles for photos and videos have been added. Other options are kept hidden in menus.
- Photos App: Apple has added two new tabs, ‘Library’ and ‘Collections,’ to help users find photos more easily.
- Phone App: Its layout has been changed. ‘Favorites,’ ‘Recents,’ and ‘Voicemails’ will now appear in a unified view.
- Messages App: Users can now create custom backgrounds for specific conversations. Typing indicators will also appear in group chats. The ability to send and receive Apple Cash has been included.
- Safari: The browser’s transparency level has been adjusted. The navigation bar’s presence has been reduced. This will help increase focus on content.
Before Installing Public Beta: What to Do and Risks Involved
The iOS 26 Public Beta offers users a great opportunity to experience new features early. However, Apple always warns users before installing beta versions. An analysis by TechCrunch states that beta software may not be stable for daily use. It might contain unexpected bugs, performance issues, and problems like battery drain. Some apps might even not work correctly. This is because app developers have not had time to fully adapt their apps to the new version.
Users in Bangladesh and around the world can download the iOS 26 Public Beta for free. They can do this by signing up for the Apple Beta Software Program. The most important step before installing is to create a complete backup of your iPhone. An archived backup is crucial. It ensures your data remains safe if you later want to return to a stable iOS version. To avoid data loss, we recommend not installing the beta on your primary device. If possible, test the beta version on a secondary iPhone.
Latest Status and Future Plans
Apple has already released the third developer beta version of iOS 26. The first public beta version is expected to be unveiled in July. Apple typically releases its final version in September, alongside new iPhone models. This beta period is a crucial time for Apple to collect user feedback and fix potential bugs before the final release.
iOS 26 is undoubtedly a massive update for the iPhone. It will redefine the user experience with its new design and powerful AI capabilities. For those willing to take risks and explore new things, the public beta is an attractive opportunity. However, awareness and proper caution are essential.
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