Free Update: How to Update iOS 26 for the Most Advanced Experience
Apple refreshes its iOS every year, and this year is no exception, except for the naming scheme, of course. Apple has officially announced iOS 26 at WWDC 2025 on June 9. While there is no confirmed release date yet, we expect it will likely arrive somewhere in mid-September 2025. However, you don’t need to wait that long. Apple has already released the iOS 26 beta update for developers, with a publicly available iOS 26 beta update expected in early July 2025. With that said, this guide will show you how to update to iOS 26, including how to download developer beta iOS 26, on your iPhone—completely free!
Part 1: Supported Devices for iOS 26/19
First, let me clarify that iOS 26 and iOS 19 are basically the same. Yes, I know we were expecting iOS 19 to follow up on iOS 18, but it seems like we won’t be getting one. iOS 26 is the direct sequel to iOS 18, as Apple aims to align its iOS “number” for the year it is designed to be used in.
Now, as is the tradition, not all iPhones will be eligible for the iOS 26 update. Apple has confirmed that iOS 26 will support iPhones starting from the iPhone 11 series and newer. This includes all models from the iPhone SE (2nd generation) onward, along with the latest iPhone 16 lineup.
Here’s the full list of supported devices for iOS 26:
- Upcoming iPhone 17 Series: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max
- Latest iPhone 16 Series: iPhone 16e, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 Series: iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 Series: iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Series: iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 Series: iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 Series: iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd & 3rd generation)
If you’re using an iPhone XS, XR, or an older model, now is the right time to upgrade. Not only will this let you enjoy iOS 26’s new features, like the Liquid Glass UI, but you’ll also keep receiving essential security updates, bug fixes, and improved performance.
Part 2: How to Update to iOS 26/19 for Free
If you’re wondering how to get developer beta iOS 26, then here 3 ways on how to update to iOS 26.
1.Join the Apple Beta Software Program
This is the safest and easiest method.
- Visit Apple’s Beta Software Program website and sign in.
- Enroll your iPhone and follow the steps.
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates.
- Choose iOS 26 Developer Beta or Public Beta.
- Tap Download and Install.
- Note: You need iOS 16.4 or later to see this option.
2.Update iOS 26 Beta via IPSW
This method is for more advanced users and should be used if the usual OTA (Over The Air) update fails or you need to downgrade later.
- Download the iOS 26 IPSW file from Apple’s Developer site.
- Connect your iPhone to a Mac or PC.
- Open Finder, hold Option (Mac) or Shift (Windows), and click “Check for Update.”
- Select the IPSW file to install the beta update iOS 26.
3.Get iOS 26 via iTunes
This method is essentially the same as the IPSW method shown above but works through the iTunes app on older systems.
- Open iTunes, connect your iPhone, hold Shift, click Update, and install the file.
For those unaware, iTunes is now the Finder app on newer Mac models.
4. Use Third-Party Upgrade Tools
If you're experiencing difficulties updating via official Apple methods (e.g., IPSW or iTunes), or you prefer a quicker alternative, third-party tools like Tenorshare ReiBoot, AnyFix, or similar utilities can help you easily upgrade to iOS 26 Beta.
Simply download and install a reliable third-party tool on your PC/Mac, connect your iPhone, select the iOS 26 Beta firmware, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade without hassle.
- Note: Always choose reputable third-party tools to ensure data safety and avoid potential risks.
Part 3: Can’t Update to iOS 26/19? Reasons & Fixes
If you’re trying to update to the iOS 26 beta update but can’t seem to download it, then here are some common reasons as to why it is happening and how to fix them:
1. Not Enough Storage
If your iPhone has low space, the update won’t install. Make sure you have at least 5GB of free space. Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage and delete apps or files you don’t need.
2. Unsupported Device
You can only download the iOS 26 beta update on iPhones starting from the iPhone 11. If you have an older model, it’s time to upgrade.
3. Poor Internet Connection
A slow or unstable Wi-Fi connection can stop the update. The update needs a good internet connection to download without errors. So try moving closer to your router or restarting your modem entirely.
4. Low Battery
Your iPhone should have at least 50% charge or be plugged in. Otherwise, the update may pause or fail.
5. Not on iOS 16.4 or Later
To see the “Beta Update iOS 26” option, your iPhone must run iOS 16.4 or higher.
If you’ve checked all these and still can’t figure out how to get iOS 26 developer beta, restarting your iPhone or resetting network settings will help terminate any bugs causing this error.
Bonus Tip: Bypass geo-restrictions on iOS 26 with the Best GPS Spoofer
Whether you're a developer testing apps or just a regular iPhone user, if you've upgraded to the beta update iOS 26 to explore the latest Apple features but can’t access certain apps because they’re restricted in your region, don’t worry. You can easily bypass these geo-restrictions using a trusted GPS spoofer like PoGoSkill.
Speaking of which, PoGoskill is a powerful GPS spoofer that lets you teleport your iPhone to any place in the world with just one tap. By faking your location, you can unlock geo-restricted content and apps on the latest iOS 26 beta update. This means even if an app isn’t available in your region, you can still download and use it just by changing your virtual location to a region where the app is supported.
Key Features of PoGoSkill:
- 1-click teleport to any location worldwide
- 4 smart movement simulation modes with adjustable moving speed
- Works with all iOS devices, including those on Beta Update iOS 26
- Safe, reliable, and simple to download and use
So if you’re wondering how to get iOS 26 developer beta while accessing all the apps without limits, PoGoSkill is your go-to solution.
Here’s how you can use PoGoSkill with simple steps:
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Step 1Click the button above and download the setup file on your computer.
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Step 2Use a data cable to connect the iOS device to the PC. Make sure you select the General Mode as your simulation mode, since it's best optimised for non-gaming needs
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Step 3Find a location on your map where you wish to spoof your coordinates and press Start to Modify to instantly teleport yourself there.
Start moving around so that your iPhone detects you in the new location, which, in turn, lets you download geo-restricted apps.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to update to iOS 26 for free, you can now explore the latest features Apple has to offer, even before the official release. Whether you're downloading the beta through Apple’s program or using the IPSW method, know that if you face geo-restrictions, don’t worry. Tools like PoGoskill can help you unlock the full experience!

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