Apple has released iOS 26 beta 7 and iPadOS 26 beta 7 to developers, continuing the cycle of pre-release builds ahead of the final versions expected in September. These updates arrive just a week after beta 6, which is a strong indication that Apple is accelerating testing to finalize stability and performance before the public rollout. Both updates are available for download in the developer settings menu on compatible devices.
As with most late-stage betas, the focus in iOS 26 beta 7 and iPadOS 26 beta 7 is not on adding new features but rather on refining what has already been introduced. Apple is concentrating on bug fixes, performance optimizations, and polishing the user experience to ensure reliability at launch. Testers using these builds have reported smoother animations and improved responsiveness across core apps and system functions.
iOS 26 continues to highlight Apple’s new Liquid Glass interface, which brings translucent design elements across the system. This visual overhaul is one of the most noticeable changes in this generation, extending to the Lock Screen, Control Center, menus, and buttons. Alongside design improvements, iOS 26 also enhances core features like Messages, Phone, and Shortcuts while preparing the foundation for Apple Intelligence, Apple’s system-wide AI integration. Developers testing beta 7 will be looking to confirm that apps remain stable and fully compatible ahead of the public release.
On the iPad side, iPadOS 26 beta 7 advances the new multitasking and windowing system. This includes resizable app windows, macOS-style traffic light controls, and a persistent menu bar that makes working with multiple apps more fluid. The changes build on Apple’s effort to bring the iPad closer to a full productivity device, especially for users who rely on it as a laptop replacement. Early testers note that beta 7 improves the responsiveness of window resizing and reduces lag, making the experience smoother than in prior betas.
The simultaneous release of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 beta 7 reflects Apple’s plan to align both platforms for a unified public rollout. With the iPhone 17 launch event expected in September, Apple will likely announce the official release date for iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 at the same time. Given the rapid pace of recent beta releases, the final versions appear to be just weeks away. For most users, this means that the latest design changes, AI-powered enhancements, and productivity improvements will soon be widely available as a free update.
