Apple has released iPadOS 26 and iOS 26 beta 3 to developers., moving towards the next big update of the iPhone operating system. This new version focuses on Minor design tweaks, some functional improvements, and bug fixes, continuing the evolution of the Liquid Glass interface that debuted with this beta cycle. While the changes aren't as groundbreaking as in the previous beta, the experience continues to be refined.
Many users have noticed that, in this release, Apple continues to calibrate the balance between aesthetics and usabilityThe signature transparency of Liquid Glass, which generated mixed opinions for making buttons and text difficult to read, is now softened. Navigation bars and backgrounds in apps like Music, Podcasts, and the App Store are now more opaque., which makes the elements clearer and easier to distinguish. In fact, Notifications also take on darker tones with certain funds to improve visibility.
New wallpapers and more customization options
The third beta brings with it more alternatives to the default wallpaperDusk, Halo, Shadow, and Sky styles are now available to choose from. Three of them explore different shades of blue, and one incorporates purple hues. The change is especially evident in dark mode, where the variations stand out uniquely. Along with this, icons like Photos and Files receive subtle saturation and color adjustments, making them easier to identify.
Liquid Glass and minor visual corrections
In addition to the changes in transparencies, The Dock returns to centered alignment when there are fewer than four apps, correcting a minor bug that many users had noticed. The Control Center also sees tweaks to the colors of the Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirDrop, and mobile data switches, with brighter tones that match the rest of the system.
Specific improvements in iPadOS 26 and native apps
In the iPad realm, Beta 3 introduces a feature that allows you to locate the cursor by shaking it, which temporarily makes it larger., a feature inherited from macOS that makes multitasking easier. In Maps, support for fog notifications has been added to offline maps, and travel delay notifications have been improved, demonstrating Apple's focus on improving the everyday experience.
Bug fixes and general polishing
Amongst the Bug fixes include a fix for a bug that caused iPads connected to external displays to go to sleep during active video calls.. Similarly, improvements in battery life and reduced overheating have been reported on some models, although other users still point out that battery life may be affected by the preliminary state of the software.
The update size can be especially large on some devices, reaching 9,5 to 11,7 GB, due to the new animations and visual resources it incorporates.
iOS Beta 2 vs Beta 3 26
Availability and recommendations for installing the beta
iOS 26 beta 3 is now available for developers, with the public beta expected in the coming days.. Apple recommends not to install These preliminary versions should not be used on major devices, as serious errors or loss of essential functions may occur, as previously occurred with the ringtone on some models.
To try the public beta, simply enroll in the Apple Beta Software Program and download the corresponding profile. It is recommended make a backup and closely follow other users' comments, especially if the equipment is used for important tasks or work.
Compatibility and next steps
It's important pointing that iOS 26 no longer supports iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max models.The rest of the range, from the iPhone 11 onwards, will be able to receive this update alongside the upcoming iPhone 17 models when they are launched in the fall. The stable version of iOS 26 is expected to be released in September, following a final feedback and polishing period thanks to these latest betas.
Along with strengthening the system's visual identity, this beta also includes Advances for developers with support for Foundation Models and screenshot recognition using Visual IntelligenceAdditionally, the new customizable backgrounds for Messages chats and improvements to native apps continue to be refined.
With the arrival of iOS 26, Apple continues to consolidate the revamped Liquid Glass design and optimize the user experience. Minor tweaks to aesthetics and functionality demonstrate the company's commitment to perfecting the system before its official release in the fall, revealing the major changes users will enjoy in the final version.