On Tuesday, Apple unveiled its sixth developer beta of the highly anticipated mobile operating system, iOS 26. Alongside this release, updates were also rolled out for various Apple devices, including the iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Mac. As we approach the official public launch slated for September, the changes and enhancements in this beta version may not be groundbreaking, but they certainly contain intriguing surprises.
One of the most talked-about additions in iOS 26 beta 6 is a fresh selection of ringtones. This update introduces half a dozen new ringtones, all variations of the popular “reflection” tune. This unexpected feature is already generating buzz on social media platforms. Early adopters are particularly excited about the “Dreamer” ringtone, which many users have described as going “hard,” “crazy good,” and “such a bop.” This catchy tune might even tempt some users to take their phones out of silent mode more often.
Another significant update in iOS 26 beta 6 addresses the ongoing controversy surrounding changes to the Camera app. Users expressed dissatisfaction with a prior update that altered the swipe direction for the Camera mode switcher, disrupting their muscle memory. This design change was inconsistent with the interface used in other native Apple applications. In response to user feedback, Apple initially introduced a new Settings toggle in beta 5, allowing users to revert to “Classic Mode.” However, in beta 6, Apple decided to streamline the experience by removing the toggle altogether and reverting the scroll direction back to its original form.
In addition to the ringtone and Camera app updates, iOS 26 beta 6 brings faster transitions and introduces new open and close animations for app launches. The updated user interface, known as Liquid Glass, continues to receive subtle enhancements aimed at improving readability in specific areas while increasing the “glassiness” effect in others. Users will notice more color dispersion when navigating between app tabs using the clear, magnifying glass-like selector. The Lock Screen and toggles have also been updated to offer the Liquid Glass effects, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
After updating to iOS 26, users will experience a revamped startup and onboarding process. This new experience is designed to showcase the Liquid Glass interface and other features of the operating system, such as the redesigned dark and clear icons across various applications.
As with previous beta releases, users can anticipate some bug fixes, although new ones may surface as Apple continues its development efforts. Feedback from users suggests that this latest beta feels significantly more stable and faster compared to earlier versions, indicating that Apple is making strides toward its public launch. Now that the developer beta has been released, those testing the public beta can expect an update in the near future.
