The iOS 26 public beta offers an exciting preview of Apple’s latest features, but the process of getting it installed can sometimes be confusing, especially for first‑time testers. Many users report that after enrolling in the beta program, the update option simply doesn’t appear in their settings, a common issue highlighted in this Apple Community discussion.
This problem is rarely a bug and is typically caused by a missed prerequisite, such as not being on the latest public iOS version, or not having the beta channel correctly selected on your device.
Why the iOS 26 Public Beta Isn’t Showing Up
Unlike in the past, installing a public beta no longer requires a configuration profile. Instead, the beta option is tied directly to the Apple ID you enroll in the Apple Beta Software Program. For the iOS 26 beta to appear, your iPhone must first be running the most up‑to‑date version of the current stable release (e.g., iOS 18.6). Apple requires this as a baseline before allowing the major version jump.
If your device is already up to date, the issue could be that the beta channel hasn’t been activated in your Software Update settings, or the Apple ID signed into your iPhone is different from the one you used to enroll in the beta program. A simple settings refresh or device restart is often all that’s needed to make the update visible. If the update still doesn’t appear, ensure your Wi‑Fi connection is stable; you can fix Wi‑Fi issues to rule out connectivity problems.
How to Download the iOS 26 Public Beta
Before you begin, it is highly recommended that you back up your iPhone to iCloud or a computer. Beta software can contain bugs, and having a backup ensures you can restore your data if needed.
1. Enroll in the Apple Beta Software Program
Your Apple ID must be registered with the program before your device can see beta updates.
- On your iPhone, open Safari and go to beta.apple.com.
- Tap Sign Up or Sign In and log in with your Apple ID.
- Agree to the terms and conditions to complete the enrollment.
2. Update to the Latest Public iOS Version
Your iPhone must be running the latest stable version of iOS before the iOS 26 beta will be offered.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- If an update (e.g., iOS 18.6) is available, tap Download and Install. A reliable cellular connection can also help; see how to fix cellular data issues.
- Once your iPhone is running the latest public version, proceed to the next step.
3. Select the Beta Channel in Settings
You must manually tell your iPhone to look for beta updates.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Tap on Beta Updates.
- Select iOS 26 Public Beta from the list. If you don’t see the “Beta Updates” option, restart your phone and check again.
4. Check for the Update
After selecting the beta channel, the iOS 26 public beta should appear on the main Software Update screen.
- Go back one screen to Settings > General > Software Update.
- The iOS 26 Public Beta should now be visible. Tap Download and Install and follow the on‑screen instructions.
5. Verify Your Apple ID and Restart
If the beta still doesn’t appear, ensure your device’s Apple ID is the same one you enrolled with and perform a quick restart.
- Confirm that the Apple ID shown at the top of the Settings app is the same one you used at beta.apple.com.
- Press and hold the side button and either volume button until the power‑off slider appears.
- Drag the slider to power off the device, wait 30 seconds, and then turn it back on.
6. Ensure You Have Enough Storage and a Wi‑Fi Connection
Beta updates are large files and have specific download requirements.
- Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage to ensure you have at least 5‑10 GB of free space.
- Connect your iPhone to a stable Wi‑Fi network and a power source to ensure the download completes without interruption.
If none of these solutions work, contact Apple Support.
