The iOS 18 public beta is available for iPhone. How to download it (and which models support it)

Jason Hiner/ZDNET

Apple announced significant updates for the iPhone with iOS 18 during its June WWDC event and now, a new iPhone 16 lineup on Monday, Sept. 9. In addition to a customizable home screen, Control Center, and lock screen, iOS 18 will give users a Photos app overhaul, new Messages enhancements, a new Passwords app, and many artificial intelligence (AI) updates under Apple Intelligence to enhance app functionality.

Also: Every iPhone model that can be updated to Apple's iOS 18 (and which ones can't)

While the iOS 18 general release is still a few weeks away, users can download a public beta version that Apple released after the iOS 18 developer beta launch. Before you download a beta version of an operating system, you should have some housekeeping items in mind:

Back up your device and personal information.Don't download beta software, which will likely have bugs and glitches, on your everyday iPhone.You should go into the experience to test new features and share feedback to improve iOS, which is why beta versions are released. 

How to install the iOS 18 beta version

Adam Breeden/ZDNET

What you need: An iPhone running iOS 16.5 or later. Since not all iPhones are compatible with iOS 18, you'll also need a model newer than the iPhone X.

Screenshot: Maria Diaz/ZDNET Screenshot: Maria Diaz/ZDNET Screenshot: Maria Diaz/ZDNET

FAQs

When was iOS 18 beta released?

Apple released the iOS 18 developer beta during WWDC 2024 in June, and the public beta version was released on July 15.

Also: The best iOS 18 features that will make updating your iPhone worthwhile

How to download the iOS 18 developer beta?

To download the iOS 18 developer beta version, navigate to your settings to install the iOS 18 developer beta if your device runs iOS 16.4 and is used with an Apple ID enrolled in the Apple Developer Program:

Go to your iPhone SettingsTap on GeneralSelect Software UpdateGo to Beta UpdatesChoose the iOS 18 Developer Beta

If you can't see this option, go to your Settings, select Privacy & Security, and enable Developer Mode.

Also: How to use and customize your iPhone's new Control Center with iOS 18

If you aren't already a member of the Apple Developer Program, you can sign up to become one in the app. An annual membership costs $99.

What is in iOS 18 beta 3? 

The iOS 18 developer beta version recently got its beta 3 release, which features dynamic wallpaper, a revamped Messages experience with wider RCS coverage, new Photos app features, and more. To download this beta version before it's publicly available, you must be part of the Apple Developer programming.

When is Apple Intelligence coming out?

Apple Intelligence, featuring the company's AI tools, will begin to roll out for compatible iPhones over the next few weeks, with more features to join in the coming months. This slew of AI features will be available on the iPhone 16 lineup and the iPhones 15 Pro and Pro Max.