Apple Releases Sixth Developer Beta for iOS 26: New Features and Updates

Apple has released the sixth developer beta for iOS 26, introducing new features such as a Liquid Glass design and redesigned app interfaces. The update also addresses a controversial change to the Camera app's swipe direction and includes faster app launches and new open & close animations. The software is nearing its public launch, expected in September.

Apple has released the sixth developer beta for iOS 26, introducing several significant updates that reflect the company's ongoing commitment to enhancing user experience. The latest beta, which includes a Liquid Glass design and redesigned app interfaces, is a step forward in Apple's quest to provide a more intuitive and visually appealing operating system.

One of the most notable changes in iOS 26 Developer Beta 6 is the implementation of the Liquid Glass design, which features translucent elements and glass-like interface elements. This design is intended to improve readability and aesthetics, with more transparent clock digits on the lock screen and varying levels of transparency in navigation bars. The new animations when opening and closing apps are also a highlight, offering a more dynamic and engaging user experience [1].

Apple has also addressed a controversial change to the Camera app's swipe direction. In previous betas, the swipe direction was altered to follow the direction of the user's finger, which was met with criticism. In iOS 26 Beta 6, Apple has reverted to the classic swipe direction, allowing users to switch shooting modes in a more familiar and intuitive manner [4].

In addition to these design changes, iOS 26 Beta 6 introduces faster app launches and new open and close animations. These enhancements aim to improve the overall performance and responsiveness of the operating system, providing a smoother user experience.

The new software also includes two brand-new apps: Apple Games and Preview. The Apple Games app serves as a central hub for gaming on the iPhone, offering a Home view to keep users connected to their favorite games and personalized recommendations. The Preview app, on the other hand, brings the functionality of viewing and editing PDFs and images to the iPhone for the first time [2].

iOS 26 Beta 6 is part of Apple's ongoing efforts to prepare for the final version of the operating system, which is expected to be released in mid-September. The software is currently in a public beta phase, allowing users to test and provide feedback on the new features and improvements.

References:
[1] https://www.heise.de/en/news/iOS-26-Developer-Beta-6-Apple-continues-to-work-on-Liquid-Glass-10520832.html
[2] https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/12/ios-26-will-add-two-brand-new-apps-to-your-iphones-home-screen/
[3] https://www.macrumors.com/2025/08/11/apple-seeds-ios-26-beta-6/
[4] https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/11/ios-26-camera-app-change/