Apple has released public beta 3 for iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, macOS Tahoe 26.1, watchOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, and visionOS 26.1. This update arrives shortly after the third developer beta became availableyesterday, bringing the same builds to users who are part of the Apple Beta Software Program. The new updates can now be downloaded over the air through the Software Update section in Settings or System Settings on compatible devices.
These new public betas continue Apple’s testing phase for its upcoming 26.1 releases, which are expected to launch later this fall. As usual, Apple has not shared official release notes outlining any changes or features. Early betas in this stage typically focus on performance tuning, security patches, and improving system stability across devices rather than introducing new features.
For users already running earlier public betas, updating is simple. On iPhone and iPad, go to Settings > General > Software Update to download iOS 26.1 public beta 3 or iPadOS 26.1 public beta 3. On Mac, open System Settings > General > Software Update to get macOS Tahoe 26.1 public beta 3. Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Vision Pro users can follow similar steps in their respective Software Update sections. Those who are not yet part of the Apple Beta Software Program can sign up using their Apple ID at beta.apple.com and enable the public beta toggle under Software Update.
Although iOS 26.1 public beta 3 and macOS Tahoe 26.1 public beta 3 do not appear to add visible new features, these builds are critical for refining system performance and addressing known issues. Apple often uses these later-stage betas to finalize behavior changes, prepare for compatibility improvements, and collect diagnostic data before the public release.
As the company approaches the final testing phase, these public betas represent one of the last opportunities for testers to provide feedback before the 26.1 updates are finalized. Apple is expected to make the stable versions available to all users in the coming weeks, completing the transition from the initial 26.0 releases to a more polished, stable experience across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Vision Pro.
We will continue monitoring these builds and report any confirmed visual, performance, or feature updates once discovered. Until then, these betas are best viewed as refinement releases, ensuring Apple’s ecosystem remains stable and optimized for its next wave of users.
1 comment