Apple has just released the first beta of iOS 26.1! Are you wondering if it’s worth it? One thing is certain, this update brings several key new features to make the most of Apple Intelligence.
This is probably one of the most anticipated updates. Just a week after the release of iOS 26, many users pointed out bugs and missing elements. Apple has therefore responded quickly. But what does this iOS 26.1 beta really change? Some new features might surprise you.
Apple Enhances Experience with iOS 26.1 Beta
The promises around iOS 26 were exciting. However, reality turned out to be less thrilling. In fact, many users have expressed disappointment with the experience.
Some faced glitches with the camera. Others reported their battery draining too quickly. Many also flagged overheating issues.
This is where the iOS 26.1 beta becomes particularly interesting. With this update, Apple addresses the bugs from the initial version. But it doesn’t stop at fixes; it also introduces new features.
The major highlight? The addition of new languages for Apple Intelligence. Previously limited to American English, the AI is finally expanding to include eight new languages: Chinese, Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese, Swedish, Turkish, and Vietnamese.
Is That All?
iOS 26.1 Beta brings more than just new languages. Firstly, in terms of Apple Music, the app gains an ultra-simple gesture. You can now swipe left or right on the mini-player to instantly change the track, whether the player is minimized or in full-screen.
This new version also brings the much-discussed Liquid Glass design to the numeric keypad of the Phone app.
Lastly, Apple has refined some visual details, such as a new icon for AirDrop and an updated video slider in Photos. Color-coded labels now appear in the Calendar, and the Safari tab bar has become slightly wider.
So, how do you get this beta version? It’s simple! You just need to download it directly from the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
All you need is a compatible device and an Apple developer account. Additionally, beta versions of watchOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, and visionOS 26.1 are also available.
But this update seems just to be the beginning. Apple is reportedly preparing the integration of the Model Context Protocol (MCP). If confirmed, apps could interact directly with the AI much more smoothly.
