How to Install iOS 26 Beta 6 & iPadOS 26 Beta 6

Apple has rolled out iOS 26 beta 6 and iPadOS 26 beta 6, pushing developers and early adopters one step closer to the final public release. Whether you prefer the quick Over-the-Air (OTA) method or a clean install via IPSW, here’s everything you need to know to get the update on your device.

iOS 26 Developer Beta 6 and iPadOS 26 Developer Beta 6 Now Live

With the public beta already available, beta 6 continues to refine performance, fix lingering bugs, and polish UI changes ahead of the upcoming Release Candidate.

Installing iOS 26 Beta 6 Over the Air (OTA)

The OTA route is the fastest and least technical way to install iOS 26 beta 6 or iPadOS 26 beta 6.

1. Visit developer.apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID linked to your developer account. (Free registration available.)
2. On your iPhone or iPad, go to:
   Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates
3. Select iOS 26 Developer Beta or iPadOS 26 Developer Beta.
4. Tap Download and Install, enter your passcode, and agree to the terms.
5. Your device will restart, and the update will be applied automatically.

Doing a Clean Install with iOS 26 Beta 6 IPSW (Paid)

If you want a fresh start, the IPSW restore method is ideal, but it requires a $99/year developer account. This process erases your device, so back up first.

1. Download the correct iOS 26 beta 6 IPSW file from the Apple Developer portal.
2. Open Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows).
3. Connect your iPhone or iPad via USB.
4. Hold Option (Mac) or Shift (Windows) and click Restore iPhone/iPad.
5. Choose the IPSW file and follow on-screen instructions.

Before You Update to iOS 26 Beta 6

• Beta software may have bugs, crashes, and app issues.
• Avoid installing betas on your main device.
• Always back up to iCloud or your computer first.
• Non-developers should stick to the public beta or wait for the final release.

Why iOS 26 Beta 6 Matters

This build is nearly feature-complete and is crucial for:

• Testing app compatibility with the final iOS 26 SDK
• Detecting performance issues before public release
• Reviewing UI refinements introduced earlier in the beta cycle

Bottom line: Whether you go with the quick OTA update or the deeper IPSW restore, iOS 26 beta 6 and iPadOS 26 beta 6 are must-installs for developers and early adopters who want the smoothest experience when the official release drops in September.