but where did the public beta go?

iOS 26 and its Liquid Glass design have been talked about since WWDC 2025 which was held on June 9. This visual overhaul with its transparency and refraction effects clearly divides users. The interface provoked strong reactions on social networks. An Internet user named Greggertruck even claimed on X that “Steve Jobs would have fired everyone”.

Experts like Dan Ives, an analyst at Wedbush, called the presentation “purring.” Following these criticisms, Apple had to review its copy. There beta 3 of iOS 26 for developers, available since the beginning of July, reveals a change of direction. Apple has significantly reduced the transparency effects to improve the readability of the interface.

An unusually long wait for the general public

Previous versions of iOS saw their first public beta generally arrive in mid-July, but that of iOS 26 is significantly delayed. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman now reveals important information on this subject: you will have to wait until July 23 (approximately). This deadline is the longest ever observed after an official presentation.

around the 23rd
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) July 15, 2025

Previous years followed a more predictable schedule. iOS 16 was available on July 11, 2022. iOS 17 followed on July 12, 2023, then iOS 18 on July 15, 2024. This break suggests that Apple faces particular challenges with this version.

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Substantial changes behind the scenes

Changes to the Liquid Glass design between the different betas probably explain this delay. The first version displayed an interface very transparentwhich created readability issues obvious. The third beta transformed “liquid glass” into “ frosted glass “. Apps like Music or Games are now fine more opaque.

This search for balance between aesthetics and functionality requires more time. Apple undoubtedly wants to offer a more stable experience for this first public version. The firm must also address accessibility concerns. Approximately 8.3 million of Americans live with visual impairment.

If you’ve already installed the Developer Beta, be aware that you can reduce transparency effects in Accessibility settings by following our guide.