Blockbuster iPhone upgrade confirmed by Apple and you can try it today for free

If you have an iPhone in your pocket there's a pretty simple way to try out some fancy new features. iOS 26 is Apple's latest and greatest operating system which comes packed with smart upgrades along with a new Liquid Glass appearance and neat way to block scam phone calls. This update was first announced back in June and won't be officially available until the autumn. However, just like all previous iOS software releases, Apple is offering users the chance to give it a whirl via its Public Beta programme, which has just gone live today.

"Help make the next releases of iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, watchOS, HomePod software and AirPods firmware our best yet," Apple said in an update on its website.

"As a member of the Apple Beta Software Programme, you can take part in shaping Apple software by test-driving pre-release versions and letting us know what you think,"

This is a great way to see what's coming later in the year, but beware. This isn't the finished version of iOS 26, with Apple advising that users are best to download the update onto a secondary device rather than their main iPhone.

The whole point of the beta is to iron out bugs and glitches before the changes are unleashed on the world. Although it's unlikely that iOS 26 will send your iPhone into meltdown, it's always best to avoid having it installed on a primary device. It's also a good idea to back up your current device before downloading the beta, just in case something goes wrong.

So how do you get iOS 26 on your iPhone today?

To get iOS 26 simply head to Apple's website and follow the instructions to sign up for its Beta Software Program. The process doesn't take long and you'll soon find your iPhone is running with all the shiny new updates announced last month.

SEE APPLE'S BETA SIGN PAGE HERE

Sadly, iOS 26 isn't compatible with the same list of devices as the current iOS 18 operating system, so not everyone will get access to it, including those with an iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR

HERE'S THE FULL LIST OF COMPATIBLE iPHONES

iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max • iPhone 16 Plus • iPhone 16 • iPhone 16e iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max • iPhone 15 Plus • iPhone 15 • iPhone 14 • iPhone 14 Plus • iPhone 14 Pro • iPhone 14 Pro Max • iPhone 13 • iPhone 13 mini • iPhone 13 Pro • iPhone 13 Pro Max • iPhone 12 • iPhone 12 mini • iPhone 12 Pro • iPhone 12 Pro Max • iPhone 11 • iPhone 11 Pro • iPhone 11 Pro Max

WHAT'S NEW IN iOS 26?

Perhaps one of the most noticeable changes when you upgrade to iOS 26 is the new look, which Apple is calling Liquid Glass. It does pretty much what it says on the tin, with menus, apps, and interactions getting a glossy appearance that really does look like you're looking through...errr, glass. The update is subtle at the times, but it certainly refreshes things and adds a modern twist to the on-screen appearance.

Another new looks is an update to the lock screens, with things getting even more interactive. The much-loved clock will fluidly adapt to the available space on the display with it changing depending on the image and what notifications pop up.

Spatial scenes can also be added in the Photos app which then bring wallpapers to life thanks to a clever 3D effect when users move the iPhone.

Next, there are some smart changes coming to phones.

If you are fed up with those annoying cold calls then iOS 26 is worth installing. Apple has added a new feature in this release called Call Screening which won't let unknown numbers pester you until the person on the phone confirms who they are.

There's also good news if you travel a lot. iOS 26 will translate both calls and texts in real time, so you can hear and see exactly what is being said.

Another nice boost is coming Messages in iOS 26. The refresh offers enhancements to conversations, including custom backgrounds and the ability to create instant polls in group chats.