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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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.