Now that iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 are available as public releases, many users who tested the beta are ready to switch back to stable updates. If you joined the Apple Beta Software Program, Developer Program, or Customer Seed Program, your device may still be flagged to receive beta updates. This means even after upgrading to the official release, you might continue to see notifications for iOS 26.1 beta or later builds.
For users who prefer stability, this can be frustrating. Beta updates are intended for testing and often include bugs, unfinished features, or compatibility issues with apps. If you rely on your iPhone or iPad for everyday use, staying enrolled in the beta program is unnecessary once the final version is out. Unenrolling ensures your device only receives polished, public releases.
The process of unenrolling after updating to iOS 26 or iPadOS 26 final release is simple and does not require erasing your device or restoring from a backup. This is very different from removing a beta before the final version is released, where you often need to use recovery mode and a computer. Once you turn off beta updates, you’ll remain on the public version of iOS 26 or iPadOS 26 and continue receiving official updates like iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1 as Apple rolls them out.
Here’s how to unenroll:
- Turn off beta updates
- Open Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates.
- Select Off. This will immediately stop your device from checking for beta builds.
- Remove the beta profile (if installed manually)
In some cases, especially if you joined the program before Apple introduced the Beta Updates toggle, a configuration profile may still be active on your device. To remove it:- Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management.
- Tap on the iOS & iPadOS Beta Software Profile.
- Select Remove Profile and enter your device passcode if asked. Once deleted, your iPhone or iPad will only receive standard public software updates.
After completing these steps, your device will be able to download the latest version of iOS 26 or iPadOS 26 which have slightly different build numbers than the RC version. You will not be prompted to download future betas, but you’ll automatically receive the stable point releases and security patches Apple pushes out to the general public.
It’s worth highlighting that unenrolling now is risk-free. Unlike downgrading from a beta build, you don’t need to worry about backup compatibility or erasing your device. All your apps, settings, and data remain intact. For most users who installed the beta out of curiosity but don’t want the instability going forward, this is the easiest and safest option.
If you ever change your mind, rejoining the program is just as simple. You can return to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates and re-enable beta updates. Apple allows you to switch in and out of the program as needed, giving you flexibility depending on whether you want early access or prefer stability.
By unenrolling now, you’re ensuring your iPhone or iPad stays on the stable release track. This means better performance, consistent app support, and fewer unexpected bugs. With iOS 26 introducing major new features across customization, productivity, and integration with other Apple devices, most users will find the public release more than enough until the next cycle of betas begins.
