Apple Releases iOS 26.1 Release Candidate, Final Version Coming in November

Apple has seeded the release candidate for iOS 26.1 to developers. This pre-release version is the last step before the official public launch. The update is expected to arrive for all users in early November.

It brings new language support for Apple Intelligence and interface refinements. According to Reuters, this update focuses on refining features introduced with the iOS 26 launch.

Key Features and Interface Tweaks in the Latest Beta

The release candidate adds several user-requested changes. A new toggle lets users adjust the opacity of the Liquid Glass design element. This allows for a more opaque look.

Apple Intelligence now supports several additional languages. These include Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, and Swedish. Support for Turkish, Vietnamese, and Traditional Chinese is also included.

AirPods Live Translation gains new language capabilities. It now works with Japanese, Korean, and Italian. Support for both Traditional and Simplified Mandarin Chinese has been added.

Visual updates are present in core apps like Calendar and Safari. Changes are also visible in Apple Music and the Photos app. Users can now disable the Lock Screen camera swipe gesture.

Broader Rollout and Final Steps Before Public Release

The release candidate phase indicates development is nearly complete. This build is typically identical to the final public version. It allows developers a final opportunity to test their apps.

This update is part of a simultaneous release across Apple’s platforms. Release candidates for iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and visionOS are also available. This ensures a unified software experience.

The focus is on stability and polish ahead of the November launch. These updates deliver incremental improvements rather than major new features. They fine-tune the user experience introduced with the major fall update.

The iOS 26.1 release candidate signals the imminent public rollout of Apple’s latest software refinements. This update enhances the core experience with practical new customization options and expanded language support. Users can expect the final iOS 26.1 version to arrive within weeks.

Thought you’d like to know

What is a release candidate?

A release candidate is typically the final build before public release. It is considered stable and is used for last-minute checks. If no critical issues are found, it becomes the public version.

Which devices are compatible with iOS 26.1?

iOS 26.1 is compatible with iPhone 11 models and newer. Some features may require specific hardware. Apple Intelligence features need an iPhone 15 Pro or later.

What new languages does Apple Intelligence support?

The update adds support for Danish, Dutch, and Norwegian. Portuguese, Swedish, Turkish, and Vietnamese are also new. Traditional Chinese support is now available as well.

Can I disable the Liquid Glass effect?

Yes, a new toggle in Settings reduces the Liquid Glass translucency. This provides a more opaque background appearance. It is a user-requested customization option.

When will the final version be released?

Apple confirmed a public release for early November. The exact date has not been announced. The release candidate suggests the launch is very near.