Apple has released the iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and macOS Tahoe 26.1 release candidate (RC) builds to developers. These updates mark the final testing stage before the public rollout and are available now through the Apple Developer Center and over the air for registered developers.
Alongside these, Apple has also issued release candidates for watchOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, and visionOS 26.1, completing the company’s fall software cycle across all major platforms. The RC versions typically represent the final software expected to ship to the public unless significant issues are found during last-minute testing.
The iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1 RC builds include a new Liquid Glass tint option, a visual refinement that subtly adjusts system transparency and background depth throughout the interface. This enhancement extends to system wallpapers and control surfaces, giving the UI a more cohesive, light-diffused appearance that aligns with Apple’s updated design direction across devices.
Beyond this, the updates focus on stability, bug fixes, and performance optimization following several weeks of developer and public beta testing. Both iPhone and iPad users can expect smoother animations and improved system responsiveness ahead of the general release.
On macOS Tahoe, the 26.1 release candidate introduces the same Liquid Glass tint feature, now unified with iOS and iPadOS for visual consistency. It also includes final compatibility updates for built-in and third-party apps, ensuring stable performance across the desktop ecosystem.
watchOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, and visionOS 26.1 RC versions bring comparable under-the-hood improvements. Apple Vision Pro users may also notice refined environmental lighting behavior and interface responsiveness in spatial experiences, preparing the system for future updates planned for early next year.
Developers can install the release candidate versions by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update on iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, or System Settings > General > Software Update on Mac and Apple Vision Pro. Assuming no further revisions are needed, the public versions are expected to arrive in the coming days.
These release candidates are usually the last release in a beta testing cycle before the final build is released to the general public, unless any bugs are found which require the release of a second release candidate. Work is already underway on iOS 26.2, iPadOS 26.2, macOS Tahoe 26.2, and visionOS 26.2, expected to build on these refinements and expand Apple’s evolving interface and intelligence features.
