Apple has just released iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 beta 5 for iPhone and iPad, and you can download it right now.
iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 Beta 5 for iPhone and iPad Now Available for Download with Bug Fixes and Performance Improvements
It’s been a couple of weeks since Apple released a new beta of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26. Today, beta 5 is available for download, and those testing out the software on their iPhone and iPad can install it right away.
In order to do that, these are the steps you need to follow:
- Launch the Settings app on your iPhone and iPad.
- Go to General > Software Update.
- Wait for Software Update to refresh and then tap on Update Now when beta 5 shows up.
The new update has the following build number: 23A5308g
Installation may take a while, and it’s best to leave your iPhone and iPad on charge or on a table when the installation is happening. You really want this to go through as smoothly as possible.
Once the installation is complete, you can start using iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 normally, and hopefully, with fewer bugs and improved performance.
Apple tweaks major software updates with every beta release. There is a chance Apple has slipped in a change or two for iPhone and iPad devices with this update. If there is, I’ll definitely highlight them in a list.
Hopefully, the new beta does not alter the Liquid Glass effect too much and keeps it true to what Apple showed at WWDC 2025.
Do keep in mind that beta 5 is available for developers only. The same update should be available for public beta users in a few days, or if we’re extremely lucky, later today.
If you are interested in testing out iOS 26 or iPadOS 26, you can either download the developer beta or the public beta. It’s entirely up to you which one you choose, but if you’re asking me, go ahead with the public beta, since it is far easier to sign up for.
Historical data says we can expect the final version of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 to arrive in September. Just a few days before release, Apple is going to announce its new lineup of iPhones as well, including a new Apple Watch.
It will be interesting to see if there’s a feature in iOS 26 or iPadOS 26 that will be exclusive to the upcoming iPhones. There’s a high chance Apple might sneak a feature or two, just to give users an incentive to upgrade.
