Apple releases iPadOS 26 beta with new windowing, Liquid Glass design, more

iPadOS 26 is the next major update to iPad software, and it introduces a lot of powerful changes. Following its introduction today during the WWDC keynote, Apple has now released iPadOS 26 beta 1 for developers.

iPadOS 26 beta 1 now available with big upgrades

iPad users who have been waiting for big productivity and multitasking upgrades: the wait is over.

Earlier today Apple introduced its vision for a more powerful, versatile iPad software experience. iPadOS 26 doesn’t full-on bring macOS to the iPad, but it does introduce several new features that make the iPad more capable than ever.

And now developers can try out an early version of the new software.

iPadOS 26 developer beta 1 is now available for download via Settings ⇾ General ⇾ Software Update.

But before you install it, be warned: the first beta versions of major OS updates tend to be plagued by bugs and performance issues.

iPadOS 26 won’t launch widely to all users until this fall, with a public beta preceding it this summer. While those releases will no doubt still introduce some bugs, they should be more stable than what’s available now.

Today’s software release is only intended for developers, and installing it on your primary device could cause a variety of issues.

That said, if you’re willing to take the risk and gain advance access to iPadOS 26’s fresh design and variety of new features, now’s your moment.

For all the latest from WWDC, check out our dedicated WWDC 2025 news hub.

Have you installed iPadOS 26 beta 1? How is it running for you? Let us know in the comments.

Best iPad accessories

• AirPods Pro 2 (now only $169, down from $249)
• Apple Pencil Pro (now only $99, down from $129)
• 100W USB-C power adapter for fast charging
• tomtoc Tablet sleeve bag for protection and style
• Baseus 10ft USB-C cable for extended reach