How to Install iOS 26 Beta 4 OTA & IPSW Before Public Beta Launch

iOS 26 Beta 4 is here, and it may be the final stop before Apple opens the doors to the public beta, expected around July 23. Whether you’re updating over the air or doing a clean install with IPSW, here’s how to get the latest developer beta on your iPhone or iPad.

iOS 26 Beta 4 Along With iPadOS 26 Beta 4 Now Available: Public Beta Just Days Away

Apple has just seeded iOS 26 Beta 4 and iPadOS 26 Beta 4 to developers, continuing its consistent release cadence. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the iOS 26 public beta is expected to arrive around July 23, making this the final developer-only release before the general public gets access.

Now is the perfect time for developers to test compatibility and prepare their apps, while early adopters can expect a smoother ride very soon.

How to Install iOS 26 Beta 4 OTA (Over-the-Air)

If you’re a registered Apple developer, here’s the easiest way to install iOS 26 Beta 4:

1. Head to developer.apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID.
2. On your iPhone or iPad, head to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates
3. Select iOS 26 Developer Beta or iPadOS 26 Developer Beta.
4. Go back and tap Download and Install.
5. Enter your passcode, agree to the terms, and begin installation.

After a quick reboot, you’ll be running iOS 26 Beta 4.

Want a Clean Install? Use the IPSW File

If you prefer a fresh start:

1. Download the appropriate iOS 26 Beta 4 IPSW file from the Apple Developer site.
2. Open Finder (macOS) or iTunes (Windows).
3. Connect your device and use the IPSW to manually restore.
4. This will erase your data, so make sure to back up first.

This method is recommended only for advanced users.

Quick Beta Reminder

Before diving in, keep these beta basics in mind:

• Developer betas are not fully stable, expect bugs and issues.
• Don’t install it on your primary device.
• Back up your data before upgrading.
• The public beta is expected within days, so casual testers may prefer to wait.

Related: How to Sign Up for iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 Public Beta on iPhone and iPad

Final Thoughts

With the public beta of iOS 26 expected around July 23, Beta 4 may be the last developer-only version before broader testing begins. Whether you’re testing OTA or via IPSW, this is your chance to experience the latest iOS improvements and prep your apps before the public rollout.