Apple has released iOS 26.5 beta 1 for developers, just after rolling out the public iOS 26.4 update for iPhone users. Right now, this looks like the first step in the next testing cycle, and early reports suggest the update is live without any major user-facing changes being widely confirmed yet.
As usual, the first developer beta arrives before Apple fully details what is new in day-to-day use. So for now, the main takeaway is simple: iOS 26.5 testing has started, and we are still digging through the build for anything notable.
How to update
If you have a supported developer device, follow these steps:
- Open Settings
- Tap General
- Tap Software Update
- Select Beta Updates
- Choose the iOS 26.5 Developer Beta
- Go back and download the update
The download can be large depending on the device. My update size is approximately 10.38GB on my iPhone 16. The installation will take some time while it checks what’s new.
We are still checking for hidden additions and smaller tweaks. If Apple has included under-the-hood fixes, interface adjustments, or app changes, those should become clearer once more developers spend time with the build.
If we find more features in iOS 26.5 beta 1, we will update coverage with the full list. Until then, this release is mainly important because it opens the door to Apple’s next AI features testing.
Let us know in the comments if you have spotted any new changes in iOS 26.5 beta 1.
