How to Install iOS 26 Beta 5 & iPadOS 26 Beta 5: OTA and IPSW Methods

Apple has released iOS 26 beta 5 and iPadOS 26 beta 5, bringing developers one step closer to the final build. Here’s how to install it via OTA or IPSW on your iPhone or iPad.

iOS 26 Developer Beta 5 (Build: 23A5308g) and iPadOS 26 Developer Beta 5 Now Available for iPhone and iPad

With the public beta already live, beta 5 offers deeper refinements, performance improvements, and likely final-stage features before the Release Candidate arrives.

How to Install iOS 26 Beta 5 Over the Air (OTA)

The OTA method is the simplest and safest way to get the latest beta build on your device. Here’s how to do it:

1. Visit developer.apple.com and log in using your Apple ID linked to your developer account. Signing up for beta access is free.
2. On your iPhone or iPad, go to:
   Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates
3. Choose iOS 26 Developer Beta or iPadOS 26 Developer Beta
4. Go back and tap Download and Install
5. Enter your passcode and agree to the terms

Your device will reboot after installation, and just like that, you’re running iOS 26 beta 5.

Prefer a Clean Slate? Install iOS 26 Beta 5 via IPSW (Paid option)

Note: Downloading the IPSW file will requires a $99 developer registration over at develiper.apple.com

If you’re a power user and want to do a clean install, IPSW is the way to go. Just be sure to back up your data first, this method erases your device.

Here’s how:

1. Download the correct iOS 26 beta 5 IPSW file from the Apple Developer portal.
2. Launch Finder (on macOS) or iTunes (on Windows).
3. Connect your iPhone or iPad via USB.
4. Hold Option (Mac) or Shift (Windows) and click Restore iPhone/iPad.
5. Select the IPSW file to begin installation.

This method is recommended for developers who want a clean environment to test apps or system behavior.

A Quick Beta Reminder

Before installing iOS 26 beta 5 or iPadOS 26 beta 5, keep these points in mind:

• Developer betas are not meant for daily use as bugs, crashes, and app issues are expected.
• Never install a beta on your primary device.
• Always back up your device to iCloud or a computer.
• If you’re not a developer, you’re better off staying on the public beta track or waiting for the stable release.

Why Install iOS 26 Beta 5?

Beta 5 is likely close to feature-complete and serves as a critical build for developers to:

• Ensure app compatibility with final iOS 26 frameworks
• Spot performance regressions
• Validate new UI/UX flows introduced earlier in the beta cycle

It’s also your chance to preview any hidden refinements Apple may include before the Release Candidate.

Final Thoughts

iOS 26 beta 5 and iPadOS 26 beta 5 are essential builds for developers and early adopters fine-tuning their experience ahead of the full launch. Whether you choose the quick OTA route or go deep with an IPSW restore, this is your opportunity to stay ahead of the curve.