Apple has rolled out the iOS 26.1 Release Candidate (RC) to beta testers, signaling what is likely the final version ahead of the public release for compatible iPhones. This build consolidates all features introduced during the iOS 26.1 beta cycle since September, including expanded Apple Intelligence support, a new Liquid Glass appearance toggle, and more.
The official release notes, now available on Apple’s developer website, detail bug fixes and performance improvements.
Apple Releases iOS 26.1 Release Candidate for Beta Testers
Key Features in iOS 26.1 RC
Liquid Glass Toggle:
Introduced in iOS 26.1 beta 4, this feature lets users adjust the transparency of the Liquid Glass interface. Accessible under Settings > Display & Brightness, users can switch between Clear and Tinted modes for the system UI.
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Lock Screen Swipe:
A new option under Settings > Camera > Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera allows users to disable the swipe-to-open camera gesture, preventing accidental launches.
Local Capture:
Users can now adjust gain levels when recording local audio with a connected microphone. A new Local Capture section in Settings also lets users choose where these files are saved.
New Gestures:
- Apple Music: Swipe left or right on the MiniPlayer to skip tracks.
- Alarms & Timers: Slide to stop instead of tapping.
Other Updates:
- Disable haptic feedback when calls connect or disconnect.
- Redesigned Apple TV app icon.
Expanding Apple’s Ecosystem
iOS 26.1 introduces new developer frameworks to enhance cross-platform data transfer and third-party cloud integration, expected to launch with the public update.
Expanded Apple Intelligence Languages:
- Live Translation for AirPods now supports Mandarin (simplified & traditional), Italian, Japanese, and Korean.
- Apple Intelligence features extend to eight additional languages: Traditional Chinese, Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, and Vietnamese.
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Developer Tools:
- AppMigrationKit: Simplifies transferring app data when switching from iPhone to Android.
- PhotoKit: Allows third-party apps to back up photos in the background without remaining open, enhancing convenience and reliability.
Eligible iPhones for iOS 26.1
- iPhone 17 series: iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air
- iPhone 16 series: iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, 16e
- iPhone 15 series: iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 series: iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 series: iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 series: iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 series: iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE: 2nd generation and later