Public Beta 4 of "iOS 26," the next OS eagerly awaited by Apple fans, was finally released on August 18, 2025, US time.Alongside it, "iPadOS 26" for iPad and "macOS 26" have also been released.

This is an opportunity for general users to experience new features ahead of the official release in September each year. The evolution of AI features like "Apple Intelligence" and the new "Liquid Glass" design are particularly noteworthy, and many of you are probably excited to try them out on your iPhone as soon as possible.

However, many people may also have anxieties or questions like, "What is a public beta?" or "Is it safe to install?" In this article, PRODIG, an expert in used smartphones, will thoroughly explain everything from the exciting new features of iOS 26 Public Beta 4 to a safe installation method anyone can understand, and important precautions you must know before installing.

【Also read】
👉Should you update to iOS 26 now or wait? A complete guide to decision-making, preparation, and troubleshooting

👉About iPadOS 26: Thorough explanation of compatible models and whether you should update

iOS 26 Finally Unveiled! What are the Noteworthy New Features?

iOS 26 Public Beta 4 has just been released. While it's an annual update, this year, the significant evolution of AI features is a major topic of discussion. Let's take a look at some of the notable new features that have been revealed so far.

• Smart Suggestions with Apple Intelligence: AI is integrated throughout the system, and Siri has become even smarter. Functions such as writing assistance and optimal suggestions based on the situation are expected, making your iPhone your best companion.

• Extensive Control Center Customization: The Control Center, which is used daily, will become more user-friendly and customizable to your preferences. The increased freedom in widget placement could significantly improve usability.

• iMessage Enhancements: New features such as scheduled message sending and a wider variety of emoji reactions are said to be added, enriching communication.

• Safari AI Summary Feature: AI instantly summarizes news articles and long web pages. This feature is perfect for busy modern people, making information gathering more efficient.

• Battery Health Visualization: You will be able to monitor the health of your battery in more detail, which may help you know when to replace it and how to charge it optimally to extend its lifespan.

However, it's important to note that advanced features related to "Apple Intelligence" are said to be available only on relatively new models, specifically the iPhone 15 and later. Keep in mind that you may not be able to experience all new features depending on your iPhone's specifications.

What exactly is a "Public Beta"? How does it differ from a developer beta?

Even if you've heard the term "beta version," you might not know what it specifically means. Let's clarify the terms here.

Apple goes through several stages before releasing a new iOS.

1. Developer Beta: This version is released to app developers shortly after a new OS is announced. It's provided to test if apps work correctly with the new OS and to develop apps that support new features. Since it's the earliest stage, it's the most likely version to be unstable or contain serious bugs. Registration for the paid Apple Developer Program is required to use it.

2. Public Beta: This is the public beta version that has just been released. It's offered to general users who want to "try out new features" a little later than the developer beta. Anyone can use it for free by registering for the Apple Beta Software Program. Although it's more stable than the developer beta, it's still not a final release, so unexpected issues can certainly occur.

3. Official Release: This is the most stable version, typically released around September, coinciding with the launch of new iPhones. It's available for all iPhone users worldwide.

In other words, the public beta is positioned as a "final test version before the official release." While it offers the significant advantage of experiencing new features early, it's crucial to understand that it is still in the testing phase.

[At Your Own Risk] How to Install iOS 26 Public Beta 4

From here, we will explain the steps to install iOS 26 Public Beta 4. The procedure itself is very simple, but please read the precautions mentioned later carefully and perform all steps at your own risk.

Step 1: Before Installation! The Most Important Item: "Backup"

Always create a backup of your iPhone data before proceeding with the update. In the unlikely event that a problem occurs during the update, or if the beta version is unstable and you wish to revert to the previous version, you risk losing all your important data, such as photos and contacts, if you do not have a backup.

You can back up your data using iCloud or by connecting your device to a computer and using iTunes (or Finder). Be sure to perform a backup using the method appropriate for your environment.

Step 2: Register for the Apple Beta Software Program

To install the public beta, you need to register for Apple's official program.

1. On your iPhone's Safari browser, go to the official website of the "Apple Beta Software Program."

2. Tap "Enroll" or "Sign In" and sign in with your Apple ID.

3. If terms and conditions are displayed, read them carefully and agree.

4. Select the "iOS" tab and follow the on-screen instructions.

Previously, downloading a "profile" was necessary, but in recent years, you can directly select the beta version from the OS settings, making it much easier.

Step 3: Perform Software Update

Once registration is complete, it's time to install.

1. Open the "Settings" app on your iPhone.

2. Go to "General" > "Software Update."

3. You will see an option for "Beta Updates"; tap it and select "iOS 26 Public Beta."

4. Returning to the previous screen, "iOS 26 Public Beta" will now be available for download. Tap "Download and Install" and follow the on-screen instructions.

This completes the installation process. After restarting, iOS 26 will be running on your iPhone.

Must-Read Before Installing! Precautions for iOS 26 Public Beta 4

While the anticipation for new features is high, public beta versions carry risks and precautions that cannot be ignored. To avoid regretting it after installation, please be sure to understand the following points.

Installation on your main device for daily use is not recommended.

The most important precaution is that you should avoid installing it on your main iPhone that you use daily for work or personal life. As mentioned earlier, public beta versions are unfinished OSes. You may encounter the following issues:

• Specific apps not launching or crashing

• Abnormally rapid battery drain

• Device overheating

• Authentication features like Face ID or Touch ID not working

• Unstable communication

• Screen display issues or freezing

Such issues can significantly disrupt your daily life and work. If you absolutely want to try it, we strongly recommend installing it on a spare device you no longer use, such as an older iPhone.

If you don't have a spare device, consider looking for a high-quality used iPhone at PRODIG. It can be very convenient to have one, not just for testing the latest OS but also as a secondary device.

Click here for PRODIG's used iPhone product list https://prodig-shop.com/collections/iphone

Check compatible models

Only certain models can install iOS 26. The compatible models identified so far are as follows:

Basically, iPhone 11 series and later are compatible. iPhone X, iPhone 8, and iPhone SE (2nd generation), among others, are unfortunately likely not supported for this update.

If your current model isn't compatible, or if you want to experience the full range of new features like "Apple Intelligence" mentioned earlier, why not consider upgrading your device? PRODIG offers a wide selection of high-quality used iPhones that have been thoroughly inspected by our expert staff.

Click here for PRODIG's used iPhone 13 series product list
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Click here for PRODIG's used iPhone 14 series product list
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Click here for PRODIG's used iPhone 15 series product list
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"Downgrading" to the original OS (stable version) is time-consuming.

You might think, "If there's a problem, I can just revert to the original OS immediately," but the process of reverting an iOS version, known as "downgrading," is more complex and time-consuming than a regular update. It requires specialized operations using a computer, and incorrect steps can lead to your iPhone not starting up (known as "bricking"). Remember that it's not easy to revert.

When buying a used smartphone, concerns about post-purchase warranty are common. At PRODIG, we offer one of the industry's longest warranties, spanning a year, and we fully cover natural malfunctions. We have a system in place to ensure you can use our products with peace of mind.

Learn more about PRODIG's reliable warranty https://prodig-shop.com/pages/guarantee

Summary: Smartly Test the New OS and Prepare for the Official Release!

This time, we've thoroughly explained everything about the newly announced "iOS 26 Public Beta 4," from its overview to installation methods and the most important precautions.

【Key points of this article】

• iOS 26 Public Beta 4 is an official program allowing general users to experience new features early.

• Installation is relatively easy by registering for the "Apple Beta Software Program" and updating from settings.

• However, always back up your data before proceeding.

• It is still a beta version, and there is a risk of unexpected issues, so installation on your main device is not recommended.

• If you want to try it, using a spare device you no longer need is the safest approach.

Experiencing cutting-edge features before anyone else is a significant appeal for gadget enthusiasts. However, there are also risks involved. Understanding the pros and cons correctly and making a careful judgment based on your own situation is key to successfully engaging with new technology.

We hope this article helps you explore the world of iOS 26 with thorough preparation. And if you're considering upgrading to a new iPhone due to an OS update, please feel free to consult PRODIG. Our knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect device.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Is the iOS 26 Public Beta free to install?

A1. Yes, it is free. Anyone can register their Apple ID with the Apple Beta Software Program and install it to try it out for free. However, communication fees for the update will be incurred separately.

Q2. If I install the public beta, what happens when the official version is released?

A2. If you have the public beta installed, you will receive a notification when the official version is released, just like a regular update, and you can update to it. Also, if you unregister from the beta program, subsequent beta versions will no longer be delivered to you.

Q3. Can I stop the installation midway?

A3. You can cancel during the download, but once the installation has started, it cannot be interrupted. You must wait for the installation to complete. Interrupting it may corrupt the system and prevent your iPhone from starting up.