Apple has released iPadOS 26 beta 8 for developers, likely the final beta before the RC debuts next month. Here’s what to expect.
iPadOS 26 is nearly ready for public launch, here’s what to expect
The testing cycle for iPadOS 26 is wrapping up soon.
Apple’s forthcoming iPad software update has been available to beta testers since early June.
But now, with September around the corner, the software is nearly ready to ship.
Today’s iPadOS 26 beta 8 release might be the final beta before the RC (release candidate) version debuts.
That’s exactly what happened last year with iPadOS 18. Beta 8 shipped to developers the final week of August, then there were no new betas until the RC following Apple’s September event.
We’re expecting the same pattern this year.
That means today’s beta should offer the most stable release yet. Apple has been focusing particularly on bug fixes and stability in the last few betas, but there are always more fixes that can be made.
If Apple follows its typical pattern, the iPadOS 26 RC will be released shortly after the company’s September event.
That event is expected to bring the iPhone 17 lineup, Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Series 11, AirPods Pro 3, and possibly the M5 iPad Pro.
Event invites should go out in the next couple days, with Tuesday, September 9 the current expected keynote date.
How has the iPadOS 26 beta been running for you? Let us know in the comments.
Best iPad accessories
- Apple Pencil Pro (now only $99, down from $129)
- AirPods Pro 2 (now only $169, down from $249)
- 100W USB-C power adapter for fast charging
- tomtoc Tablet sleeve bag for protection and style
- Baseus 10ft USB-C cable for extended reach
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