Apple has initiated the early beta phase for its upcoming operating systems, unveiling macOS Tahoe 26.1 and iOS 26.1 Beta 1. This release is part of a broader update that also includes beta versions for iPadOS 26.1, watchOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, and visionOS 26.1. Typically, these x.1 updates are aimed at fixing known bugs and enhancing functionalities, setting the stage for significant feature advancements, such as expected improvements to Siri in the forthcoming x.4 versions anticipated in the next year.
The latest beta build numbers suggest an anticipated release date of September 22, 2025, indicating that these versions are still in their developmental stages. Apple is actively gathering feedback from registered developers to refine the software before its public release. This beta testing follows a successful rollout of earlier updates this year, even amidst some confusion during the macOS 26 launch.
The updates are designed to address various minor issues, including graphical glitches that emerged with the introduction of Liquid Glass technology. Detailed information on the current beta versions includes macOS 26.1 Beta 1 (build 25B5042k), iOS 26.1 Beta 1 (build 23B5044l), as well as the corresponding versions for other devices—iPadOS 26.1 Beta 1, watchOS 26.1 Beta 1, tvOS 26.1 Beta 1, and visionOS 26.1 Beta 1, with build numbers 23B5044l, 23S5002i, 23J5543j, and 23N5013j, respectively.
Historically, Apple aims to release two updates annually, with the development teams continuously working towards the x.4 versions slated for the spring. Consequently, there is no indication that the teams will experience a lull in development activities in the lead-up to these future updates.
In summary, Apple’s release of these beta versions signals a proactive approach to software refinement, focusing on bug fixes and enhancements while laying the foundation for major feature updates in the coming year. As the beta testing progresses, developers’ feedback will be crucial in shaping the final versions of these operating systems
The latest beta build numbers suggest an anticipated release date of September 22, 2025, indicating that these versions are still in their developmental stages. Apple is actively gathering feedback from registered developers to refine the software before its public release. This beta testing follows a successful rollout of earlier updates this year, even amidst some confusion during the macOS 26 launch.
The updates are designed to address various minor issues, including graphical glitches that emerged with the introduction of Liquid Glass technology. Detailed information on the current beta versions includes macOS 26.1 Beta 1 (build 25B5042k), iOS 26.1 Beta 1 (build 23B5044l), as well as the corresponding versions for other devices—iPadOS 26.1 Beta 1, watchOS 26.1 Beta 1, tvOS 26.1 Beta 1, and visionOS 26.1 Beta 1, with build numbers 23B5044l, 23S5002i, 23J5543j, and 23N5013j, respectively.
Historically, Apple aims to release two updates annually, with the development teams continuously working towards the x.4 versions slated for the spring. Consequently, there is no indication that the teams will experience a lull in development activities in the lead-up to these future updates.
In summary, Apple’s release of these beta versions signals a proactive approach to software refinement, focusing on bug fixes and enhancements while laying the foundation for major feature updates in the coming year. As the beta testing progresses, developers’ feedback will be crucial in shaping the final versions of these operating systems
First developer betas of macOS Tahoe 26.1 and iOS 26.1 released
Apple has released beta versions of its latest operating systems: macOS Tahoe 26.1 and iOS 26.1 Beta 1, alongside other beta updates, including iPadOS 26.1, watchOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, and visionOS 26.1. These x.1 updates typically focus on resolving known bugs and introducing functional improvements for future features, such as advancements in Siri expected to arrive with x.4 versions next year. The beta versions are still in their early stages, with build numbers indicating September 22nd, 2025 releases, but no public beta has been announced yet.
First developer betas of macOS Tahoe 26.1 and iOS 26.1 released @ Mac OS Compatible
