Apple has released the eighth developer betas of watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26. Arriving just a week after the previous round, these builds signal that Apple is entering the final stages of testing ahead of its annual fall event. The updates can be installed by developers on supported Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Vision Pro devices through the developer settings.
The watchOS 26 beta 8 release shows how Apple is extending its broader design and intelligence strategy to the wrist. The new Liquid Glass design brings a layered, translucent interface that feels more dynamic than earlier versions. Workout Buddy adds a coaching element directly on the watch, using intelligence features to provide encouragement and summaries tailored to fitness goals. The Smart Stack has also become more responsive, surfacing the right information at the right moment. Apple has added a dedicated Notes app so short reminders and lists can be checked or created without pulling out an iPhone, while Live Translation expands communication tools with instant language support during conversations.
On Apple TV, tvOS 26 beta 8 continues to refine the experience for entertainment and streaming. The Liquid Glass look reshapes the user interface for consistency across Apple platforms. Karaoke support has been built into Apple Music Sing, allowing an iPhone to be used as a microphone for sing-along sessions. Stability improvements make AirPlay speakers easier to use, while new Aerial screensavers enhance the viewing experience with fresh imagery. Apple has also streamlined app setup by letting accounts sync through Apple ID, cutting down on repeated logins when installing services.
For developers working with Vision Pro, visionOS 26 beta 8 highlights Apple’s effort to make spatial computing feel natural and collaborative. Widgets can now be placed anywhere in the user’s environment, turning empty space into a customizable dashboard. Personas appear more lifelike in meetings and calls, offering greater realism in communication. Shared spatial experiences let two Vision Pro users interact in the same environment, laying the groundwork for more compelling use cases in productivity, entertainment, and collaboration.
With beta 8, Apple is putting the final touches on design, stability, and ecosystem features. Developers now have a clear preview of what will ship later this year, giving them time to ensure their apps are ready when the updates are released alongside new hardware this fall.
