iOS 26.1 Release Candidate released to developers and public beta testers

Apple has made the iOS 26.1 Release Candidate (RC) available to registered developers and participants in the public beta program. A Release Candidate usually signals that Apple considers the build close to final — the general public release often follows within days if no critical issues are found.

If you’re enrolled in Apple’s developer or public beta programs, you can install the RC via Settings > General > Software Update. As always, back up your device before installing beta or RC software to avoid data loss.

What to expect

• The RC typically contains bug fixes, performance improvements and minor feature tweaks compared to the previous beta — Apple publishes detailed release notes in the Software Update screen and the developer portal.
• If no major problems appear during the RC phase, Apple usually issues the final public release shortly afterward.
• Developers should test their apps against the RC and report any regressions; public beta users can help identify remaining issues that Apple may address before wide rollout.

Install tips

• Back up your iPhone to iCloud or your computer before updating.
• Check the iOS 26.1 release notes (in Settings or Apple’s developer site) for known issues and changes.
• If you rely on critical apps, confirm they are compatible with iOS 26.1 before updating.

For now, the RC is limited to developers and public beta testers — watch for Apple’s official public release announcement in the coming days if everything goes smoothly.

Discussion: Are you installing the iOS 26.1 Release Candidate now or waiting for the public release? What would make you install a Release Candidate on your primary device?