Apple on Tuesday released its sixth developer beta of its mobile operating system, iOS 26, along with updates for iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV, Mac, and others. As the new software gets closer to its September public launch date, the changes and tweaks aren’t as significant, but there are still some surprises to be found. In beta 6, that includes a new selection of ringtones, a final decision on the Camera swiping direction controversy, a new onboarding experience, and other updates.
The addition of half a dozen new ringtones, all variants of the “reflection” tune, was an unexpected addition that’s already gaining attention on social media. Early adopters are particularly enthusiastic about the “Dreamer” ringtone, which has been described as going hard, crazy good, and such a bop, among other things. It might even encourage some to take their phones out of silent mode for a change.
Also new in iOS 26 beta 6 is an update on the controversial change to the Camera app. There was significant backlash over how Apple altered the Camera mode switcher’s touch response. Users complained that the change, introduced in prior betas, disrupted their muscle memory, as the swipe gesture reversed the scroll direction they were accustomed to—a design paradigm consistent with other native Apple apps. In beta 5, Apple responded by adding a Settings toggle to revert to “Classic Mode,” restoring the original behavior.
It wouldn’t have been surprising for Apple to keep this option. The company often provides fallbacks for major UI changes, such as disabling “Natural scrolling” on MacBooks or relocating Safari’s address bar on iPhones. However, in this case, Apple decided the Camera direction wasn’t worth the debate. In beta 6, the Settings toggle was removed, and the scroll direction reverted to its previous state.
Other notable updates in the new beta include faster transitions and new open-and-close animations for launching apps. These animations now resemble iPadOS versions, featuring a slight “magic lamp” or “genie” effect.
Liquid Glass, the updated UI for Apple devices, continues to receive subtle refinements for readability and visual appeal. The latest changes introduce more color dispersion when switching between app tabs using the clear, magnifying glass-like selector. Liquid Glass effects have also been extended to the Lock Screen and toggles.
After updating, users will encounter a new startup and onboarding experience designed to introduce Liquid Glass and other iOS 26 features, such as dark and clear icons and redesigned app interfaces.
As with previous beta releases, this update includes bug fixes, though new issues may arise as development progresses. However, many users report that this beta feels more stable and noticeably faster than earlier versions, suggesting Apple is nearing its public launch.
With the developer beta now available, those testing the public beta can expect an update soon.