Apple has recently distributed the third developer betas for its upcoming operating system updates, including iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, macOS Tahoe 26.1, watchOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, and visionOS 26.1. These latest beta versions are now accessible to registered developers for testing and evaluation.
Release Timeline and Build Information
The progression of these beta releases is as follows:
– First Beta Release: September 22, 2025
– Second Beta Release: October 6, 2025
– Third Beta Release: October 13, 2025
The specific build numbers for the third beta versions are:
– iOS 26.1 Beta 3: Build 23B5064e
– iPadOS 26.1 Beta 3: Build 23B5064e
– macOS Tahoe 26.1 Beta 3: Build 25B5062e
– watchOS 26.1 Beta 3: Build 23S5022e
– tvOS 26.1 Beta 3: Build 23J5563d
– visionOS 26.1 Beta 3: Build 23N5033d
Key Enhancements and Features
The third beta iterations introduce several notable enhancements:
1. Expanded Language Support in Apple Intelligence:
– Apple Intelligence now accommodates additional languages, including Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (Traditional), and Vietnamese. ([macrumors.com](https://www.macrumors.com/2025/10/13/apple-seeds-ios-26-1-beta-3/?utm_source=openai))
2. AirPods Live Translation Enhancements:
– The Live Translation feature for AirPods has been extended to support Japanese, Korean, Italian, and both Traditional and Simplified Chinese. ([macrumors.com](https://www.macrumors.com/2025/10/13/apple-seeds-ios-26-1-beta-3/?utm_source=openai))
3. User Interface and Functional Improvements:
– Liquid Glass Expansion: The Liquid Glass design has been integrated into the Phone app’s keypad, offering a more cohesive visual experience. ([macrumors.com](https://www.macrumors.com/2025/10/13/apple-seeds-ios-26-1-beta-3/?utm_source=openai))
– Apple Music Gesture Controls: Users can now utilize a swipe gesture to change tracks within Apple Music, enhancing navigation efficiency. ([macrumors.com](https://www.macrumors.com/2025/10/13/apple-seeds-ios-26-1-beta-3/?utm_source=openai))
– Visual Updates: Subtle design modifications have been applied to the Calendar, Safari, and Photos applications, aiming to improve user interaction and aesthetics. ([macrumors.com](https://www.macrumors.com/2025/10/13/apple-seeds-ios-26-1-beta-3/?utm_source=openai))
Developer Access and Installation
Registered developers can download and install these beta versions by navigating to the Software Update section within the Settings app on their respective devices. It is crucial to note that beta software may contain bugs or incomplete features; therefore, it is recommended to install these versions on non-primary devices designated for testing purposes.
Cautionary Note
Both Apple and industry experts advise against installing beta software on primary devices due to potential risks such as data loss or system instability. Developers and testers should ensure that all critical data is backed up before proceeding with the installation of beta versions.
Anticipated Public Release
While these beta versions are currently available exclusively to developers, Apple is expected to release public beta versions in the near future. The final public release of iOS 26.1, macOS Tahoe 26.1, and other associated updates is anticipated later this month, following the completion of the beta testing phase.
Conclusion
The third developer betas of iOS 26.1 and macOS Tahoe 26.1 signify Apple’s ongoing commitment to refining and enhancing its operating systems. With expanded language support, improved translation features, and user interface enhancements, these updates aim to provide a more inclusive and user-friendly experience. Developers are encouraged to participate in the testing process and provide feedback to ensure the stability and functionality of the final releases.
