Major free iPhone upgrade is coming soon and you can get it first - here's how

Apple has just confirmed the launch of its next new operating system, which will arrive on devices later this year. It's called iOS 26 (no, it won't be called iOS 19 as expected) and along with that new name it gets plenty of shiny new features and a refreshed appearance called Liquid Glass.

Once installed, there's that slick new look along with changes such as Call Screening - which blocks unwanted phone conversations - and spam texts are also removed automatically. Many of Apple's popular apps - such as Maps and Photos are also getting an update .

There will even be the option to set a snooze duration between 1 and 15 minutes, giving you more flexibility and customisation for your daily alarms.

There's no date set for the launch of iOS 26, but we expect it to arrive on compatible devices in September. Luckily, if you can't wait that long, there's good news.

Apple has confirmed that its Public Beta will be made available from next month, with users able to sign up and try things out long before it's released to everyone across the globe.

"New public betas for iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, tvOS 26, HomePod software 26, watchOS 26 and AirPods Firmware are coming soon," Apple explained.

"As a member of the Apple Beta Software Programme, you can take part in shaping Apple software by test-driving pre-release versions and letting us know what you think.

"The Apple Beta Software Programme lets you try pre-release software and provide feedback to help us make it even better."

If you fancy giving it a go, you can sign up here.

Then, once it is released, you'll be able to download the update and give it a whirl.

The only thing Apple advises is not to install the beta on your main device. That's because it is a pre-released version and may have some bugs and issues in it.

That, of course, is the whole point of the beta as it gives Apple time and feedback to iron out any glitches.

There's no word on an exact release time for the iOS 26 beta but watch this space for more details.

“iOS 26 shines with the gorgeous new design and meaningful improvements to the features users rely on every day, making iPhone even more helpful,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering.

“Experiences are more expressive and personal, from the Lock Screen and Home Screen, to new capabilities across Phone and Messages that help users focus on the connections that matter most. And with powerful new Apple Intelligence capabilities integrated across the system, users can get things done easier than ever.”