Apple Releases iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 Public Beta 5

Apple has released iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 public beta 5, following the eighth developer beta release. The fifth public beta release likely mirrors the iOS 26 developer beta 8, and will be the final public beta release before the final version arrives in mid-September. To try the public beta, sign up at beta.apple.com and update in the Software Update section of the Settings app.

Apple has released the fifth public beta of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, following the eighth developer beta release. This marks a significant step closer to the final version of the operating system, which is expected to launch in mid-September. The public beta 5 is anticipated to mirror the features and improvements seen in the developer beta 8, with Apple aiming to gather feedback from a broader user base before the official release.

For users interested in testing the latest updates, Apple has made the process straightforward. Simply visit beta.apple.com to sign up for the public beta program, which is free to join. Once enrolled, the option to update to iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 public beta 5 will appear in the Software Update section of the Settings app on your device.

The public beta program provides an opportunity for users to experience new features and enhancements before they become available to the general public. This includes updates to CarPlay, Apple Music, Maps, and Wallet, as well as improvements to the user interface and Apple Intelligence capabilities. Developers have also been testing the new multitasking system in iPadOS 26, which aims to provide a more Mac-like experience on iPads.

As with any beta release, there may be bugs and limitations. Users have reported issues such as malfunctioning voicemail playback icons and the removal of custom wallpapers. However, Apple is expected to address these issues in subsequent updates.

In summary, the release of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 public beta 5 signifies Apple's ongoing commitment to innovation and user feedback. By offering a public beta, Apple ensures that the final version of the operating system is as polished and user-friendly as possible.

References:
[1] https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/25/ios-26-public-beta-5/
[2] https://www.geeky-gadgets.com/ios-26-beta-7-apple-carplay/
[3] https://www.macrumors.com/2025/08/25/apple-seeds-ios-26-beta-8/
[4] https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/25/ios-26-beta-8/