Those who downloaded the preview of the iOS 26 update seem to be experiencing some regret.
If you’re still on iOS 18.5, which was released just last month, there’s no need to worry about missing several updates. Apple has opted to leap from version 18.5 directly to 26.
The reason behind this jump in version numbers is Apple’s desire to standardize the naming across all its software, according to Stuff.
The new version of Apple’s software was introduced at the Worldwide Developer Conference yesterday, June 9, and the developer version has become available for download.
Tech Radar notes that to access the iOS 26 beta, you must register for the Apple Developer Program.
There may be a fee involved in joining the program, but the publication suggests, “if you just quit out from here you should still be enrolled in the free tier of the Apple Developer Program, which is all you need to access the betas.”
However, you might want to reconsider downloading the beta as some users report regret after doing so.
A significant concern is that the background apps on the home screen are not as blurred as they were in earlier versions.
One Twitter user shared a screenshot of their updated home screen, stating, “Totally regretting updating my phone.”
“Steve Jobs would have fired everyone,” said another user, while a third criticized the home screen design as ‘ugly, hard to read, hard to differentiate states, uses more battery, [and] less performant due to all the blur rendering’.
Others have described it as “horrible and unusable.”
One more critic remarked, “I saw someone else post something similar earlier. I thought it was a joke. Guess no update for me.”
Despite the criticism, not everyone is unhappy with the update.
One supporter of the update wrote, “I think it’s gorgeous, can’t believe I am in the minority here.”
Another user expressed enthusiasm, saying, “#iOS26 beta is really good! I love the glassy sleek design, and other small features as well. You did a pretty good job @Apple.”
According to Apple’s press release, issued yesterday, the new design aims to make apps and system experiences “more expressive and delightful, while keeping iOS instantly familiar.”
The release further explains, “It’s crafted with Liquid Glass—a new translucent material that reflects and refracts its surroundings, bringing greater focus to content, and delivering a new level of vitality across controls, navigation, app icons, widgets, and more.”
“The new design extends to the Home Screen and Lock Screen, making them more personal and expressive than ever. Liquid Glass also brings new customization options to app icons and widgets, including a stunning clear look.”
The full release of iOS 26 is anticipated this fall.