How to install iPadOS 26 beta on your iPad (and which models support it)

Which iPads are compatible with iPadOS 26?

You'll need an iPad with iPadOS 16.4 or later, which means one of these models:

• iPad Pro (M4)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation or later)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later)
• iPad Air (M3)
• iPad Air (M2)
• iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
• iPad (A16)
• iPad (8th generation and later)
• iPad Mini (A17 Pro)
• iPad Mini (5th generation and later)

When will iPadOS 26 be released?

Apple is releasing the iPadOS 26 developer beta during WWDC 2025, and the public beta version will likely be released in July. If past years are any indication, the general release of iPadOS 26 will take place in September.

Also: Your iPad will act more like a Mac now - here's what that looks like

What to do before installing the iPadOS 26 developer beta?

You can always join the Apple Beta program to get the latest beta versions of iPadOS. Before you download a beta version of an operating system, keep these housekeeping items in mind:

• Back up your device and personal information.
• Don't download beta software, which will likely have bugs and glitches, on your everyday iPad.
• Beta versions are released so you can test new features and share feedback to improve iPadOS.

How do I install the iPadOS 26 public beta version?

You'll need an iPad running iPadOS 16.4 or later. 

1. Go to your iPad's Settings and select General.
2. Go to Software Update in Settings.
3. Enable Beta Updates. To enable Beta Updates, go to Beta Updates and select the iPadOS version you'd like to access. This setting is turned off by default on iPads.
4. Select iPadOS 26 Public Beta. Then you'll begin receiving automatic software updates to the latest beta version of iPadOS 26. By the time the public beta is released, Apple will have two beta versions: iPadOS 26 public beta and iPadOS 26 developer beta. Once you do this, return to the previous page. If an update is available now, your iPhone will prompt you to download and install it.

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