How to Install iPadOS 26 Beta - Complete Guide for iPad
Updated for iPadOS 26

How to install
iPadOS 26 Beta

A complete library of installation methods for iPad. From OTA updates to advanced IPSW restoration.

Chapter 1: The Backup

iCloud
Computer
Easiest Method

iCloud Backup

Perfect for most users. Requires sufficient iCloud storage.

  1. 1 Connect your iPad to a Wi-Fi network.
  2. 2 Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud.
  3. 3 Tap iCloud Backup.
  4. 4 Tap Back Up Now and wait for the process to complete.
Did you know?

iPadOS beta updates are large. Ensure your iPad has at least 10GB of free space before starting the backup and install process.

Data Safety Score

Method A

Over-The-Air (OTA)

Public Beta
Developer
1

Enroll Apple ID

Since iPadOS 16.4, profile files are obsolete. You must enroll your Apple ID directly with Apple.

For Public Beta, sign up for the Apple Beta Software Program. It's free for everyone.

Go to beta.apple.com
2

Enable The Toggle

On your iPad, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates.

Beta Updates
Off
iPadOS 26 Public Beta
iPadOS 26 Developer Beta
3

Download & Install

Go back one screen. iPadOS 26 Beta will appear like a normal update. Tap "Download and Install".

iPadOS installations consume significant power. Keep your iPad plugged in.
Method B

IPSW Clean Install

Why use IPSW?

An IPSW file allows you to completely wipe the iPad and install a fresh copy of iPadOS 26. This is the best method to fix persistent bugs, battery drain, or "System Data" storage issues.

1 Download Firmware

Download the specific .ipsw file for your iPad model (e.g., iPad Pro 13-inch M4) from the Apple Developer Portal.

2 Disable "Find My iPad"

Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Find My and turn off "Find My iPad". You cannot restore a device with this enabled.

3 The Secret Key Combination

Connect iPad to computer. In Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows), hold the specific key on your keyboard while clicking "Check for Update".

Mac User Option (Alt) + Click
Windows User Shift + Click

4 Select & Install

A file browser will open. Select the downloaded IPSW file. Your computer will verify the file with Apple and begin the clean installation.

Troubleshooting Library

Stuck on Apple Logo

If your iPad has been stuck on the Apple logo for >45 minutes, perform a Force Restart:

iPad without Home Button:
1. Press & Release Vol Up
2. Press & Release Vol Down
3. HOLD Top Button until logo reappears.

iPad with Home Button:
HOLD Top + Home buttons together until logo reappears.

How to Downgrade

To remove iPadOS 26 and go back to iPadOS 25, you must enter Recovery Mode.

Warning: Downgrading erases ALL data on the iPad.
  1. Connect iPad to Computer.
  2. Perform Force Restart sequence (see left) but KEEP HOLDING the Top Button until you see a "Laptop + Cable" icon.
  3. On computer, choose "Restore" (not Update).

DFU Mode (Deep Restore)

Used if Recovery Mode fails. Screen remains BLACK.

1. Connect iPad to Computer.
2. Vol Up, Vol Down, Hold Top (10s) until black.
3. While holding Top, hold Vol Down (5s).
4. Release Top, keep holding Vol Down (10s).
5. Screen should stay black. Computer detects "Recovery".

Error Codes Dictionary

Error 4000/4013: USB Connection Error. Use original cable, try different USB port, disable firewall/antivirus.
Error 14: Storage Full or USB issue. Free up space on iPad or try a different cable.
"Unable to Verify Update": Network error. Delete update from iPad Storage and re-download on Wi-Fi.

© 2026 BetaProfiles. Not affiliated with Apple Inc.

All product names, logos, and brands are property of their respective owners.

Are you sure of this?

By downloading and installing this profile, you are enrolled in Apple's Developer Beta program.

The iOS 16 developer beta is still in development, which means some applications and services may not work as expected and their data may not be backwards compatible. Be sure to back up your iOS device with iTunes before installing the software.

Learn how to backup your iPhone →​

Check out our FAQs page →

Install