First Beta of iOS 26.3 & macOS Tahoe 26.3 Released for Testing

Apple has introduced new beta versions of system software for those enrolled in the Apple beta testing program, versioned as iOS 26.3 beta 1, macOS Tahoe 26.3 beta 1, and ipadOS 26.3 beta 1. This is the first set of beta builds that arrive right on the heals of the freshly released iOS 26.2 update, iPadOS 26.2 update, and macOS Tahoe 26.2 update.

Presumably iOS 26.3 beta 1, macOS Tahoe 26.3 beta 1, and ipadOS 26.3 beta 1 will include some bug fixes, security enhancements, some tweaks, and a minor feature or two. No major changes are expected.

Additionally, other beta system software is available for developers who work with Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro and need to test their work on those devices.

How to Download iOS 26.3 Beta 1 / iPadOS 26.3 Beta 1

For iPhone and iPad, do the following:

1. Open the “Settings” app
2. Go to “General” and then to “Software Update”
3. Choose to download and install iOS 26.3 beta / iPadOS 26.3 beta

How to Download MacOS Tahoe 26.3 Beta 1

For Mac:

1. From the  Apple menu, go to “System Settings”
2. Select “General” and then go to “Software Update”
3. Choose to update now for MacOS Tahoe 26.3 beta

Apple typically issues several beta builds before releasing a final version to the general public. Since this is just the start of a new beta version, it’s likely the final versions of iOS 26.3, macOS Tahoe 26.3, and ipadOS 26.3 won’t be released to the public until late January or early February, especially given the holiday season.