Today Apple released beta 5 for iOS 27 and companion updates, but the company also shipped a surprise second wave of betas, for iOS 26.6.1, macOS 26.6.2 and more.
Betas arrive for iOS 26.6.1, iPadOS 26.6.1, and macOS 26.6.2
If you’ve been running Apple’s beta software, there are two options available today.
iOS 27 beta 5 has finally arrived after a three-week wait, continuing Apple’s summer-long preparation for its next major software version.
But Apple has also just shipped a new wave of betas for iOS 26 and its companion updates.
Beta 1 is here for iOS 26.6.1, iPadOS 26.6.1, and macOS 26.6.2.
It’s unusual for Apple to offer betas for such minor software updates. Instead, the company typically just ships minor point releases immediately with no prior notice.
It’s possible these releases are in lieu of a larger update like iOS 26.7 coming. But whatever the reason, Apple clearly saw a reason to ship these new iOS 26 updates as betas before they release to the public.
We’re expecting nothing but security updates and bug fixes in iOS 26.6.1 and more. We’ll keep you posted on any specific changes we discover.
Note: if you’ve already upgraded your iPhone to the iOS 27 beta, you won’t see the option of installing iOS 26.6.1. Instead, it’s only available on devices still running iOS 26.
Are you still running iOS 26? Have you noticed anything different in the iOS 26.6.1 beta? Let us know in the comments.
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