How to Install visionOS 26 Beta - Complete Guide for Apple Vision Pro
Updated for visionOS 26

How to install
visionOS 26 Beta

Enter the next dimension. A complete guide to safely updating your Apple Vision Pro to the latest spatial operating system.

No Easy Downgrade

Apple Vision Pro cannot be restored by a user without a special Developer Strap ($300). If you brick your device or encounter critical bugs, you will likely need to visit an Apple Store. Install betas only if you understand this risk.

Chapter 1: Prerequisites

Apple ID Enrollment

The Apple ID signed into your Vision Pro must be enrolled in the beta program.

Power Connection

Keep the battery connected and preferably plugged into a wall outlet during the update.

iCloud Backup

Ensure "iCloud Backup" is enabled in Settings > [Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.

Method A

Over-The-Air (Recommended)

Public Beta
Developer
1

Look Up Settings

Put on your Apple Vision Pro. Look at the "Settings" app icon and tap your fingers to open it.

Settings

visionOS App

2

Enable Beta Updates

Navigate to General > Software Update > Beta Updates.

Software Update
Beta Updates
Public Beta
3

Update Now

Tap Update Now. You can take off the headset once the download finishes and the restart begins. The front EyeSight display will show a progress bar.

You do not need to wear the headset during the actual installation reboot.
Method B

Developer Strap (Restore)

Using the Developer Strap

The Developer Strap (sold separately to registered developers) adds a USB-C port to Vision Pro, allowing connection to a Mac for IPSW restoration.

1

Connect Strap

Replace the right Audio Strap with the Developer Strap using the eject tool.

2

Connect to Mac

Connect the USB-C cable from the strap to your Mac. Open Apple Configurator.

3

Recovery Mode

Unplug power. Hold Top Button. Plug power back in while holding button until "Recovery" icon appears on Mac.

4

Restore

In Apple Configurator, right-click the Vision Pro icon and select Restore.

Troubleshooting Library

Eye Tracking Failed

If eye tracking is inaccurate after update:

Recalibrate:
Quadruple-click (4 times) the Top Button to trigger quick recalibration.

"Beta Updates" Missing

Common issue. Try this:

  • Restart Vision Pro.
  • Sign out/in of Apple ID in Settings.
  • Ensure you are on visionOS 1.1 or later.

Persona Unavailable

Personas often break in betas.

Solution: You likely need to recapture your Persona. Go to Settings > Persona and select "Recapture".

Dictionary

Optic ID: Iris authentication system. May need reset after beta update.
Environments: Virtual backgrounds. Beta versions sometimes fail to download these assets immediately.

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