iOS 26.1 Beta 3 & macOS 26.1: Complete Guide to New Features, Macintosh HD Icon Change & How to Download | October 2025

ALL GLOBAL INFO TODAY | October 14, 2025 | Technology | Apple Updates | 14 min read

📱 iOS 26.1 Beta 3 & macOS 26.1 Beta 3: Complete Guide to New Features, Controversial Icon Changes & How to Download

Tags: iOS 26.1, macOS 26.1, Apple Beta, iPhone Update, Mac Update, Macintosh HD Icon, Slide-to-Stop Alarm, Apple Intelligence, Beta Features

CUPERTINO, CA — Apple released the third developer beta of iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and macOS Tahoe 26.1 on October 13, 2025, introducing significant changes and refinements to both operating systems. From a controversial redesign of the iconic Macintosh HD icon to new alarm dismissal gestures, these updates continue Apple's commitment to refining the user experience while expanding language support for Apple Intelligence.

Just a week after releasing iOS 26.1 beta 2, Apple is back with beta 3, bringing useful interface tweaks, expanded Apple Intelligence capabilities, and design changes that have sparked debate among the Mac community.

🆕 iOS 26.1 Beta 3: Major New Features

1. Slide-to-Stop Alarm Dismissal (Most Significant Change)

The most notable change in iOS 26.1 is how you dismiss alarms. Alarms and timers that you set up in the Clock app now have a slide-to-stop button rather than a tap-to-stop button on the Lock Screen. You can snooze an alarm with a tap, but to turn it off entirely, you need to use a slide gesture.

Why This Change Matters

The change makes it much harder to dismiss an alarm when you're half-asleep, addressing one of the most common complaints from iPhone users: accidentally turning off alarms instead of snoozing them. The new slide gesture requires deliberate action, ensuring you're actually awake when dismissing your morning alarm.

How It Works

• Snooze: Single tap (as before)
• Dismiss: Slide gesture (new requirement)
• Applies to: Both alarms and timers set in the Clock app
• Lock Screen only: Change specifically affects Lock Screen interaction

2. Expanded Liquid Glass Design Language

iOS 26 introduced Apple's new "Liquid Glass" design aesthetic, and iOS 26.1 continues expanding it across the system. There are subtle tweaks to some of the Liquid Glass design elements as Apple continues to refine iOS 26.

New Liquid Glass Implementation

• Phone App Keypad: Liquid Glass has been expanded to the Phone app's keypad, giving the dialer a more modern, translucent appearance
• Refined Elements: Subtle improvements to existing Liquid Glass components throughout the system
• Consistency: Bringing more apps into alignment with the new design language
• Depth and Transparency: Enhanced visual depth effects across UI elements

3. Apple Music: New Swipe Gesture for Track Changes

Apple Music has a new swipe gesture for changing tracks, making it easier and more intuitive to navigate your music library while listening.

How It Works

• Swipe Right: Skip to previous track
• Swipe Left: Skip to next track
• Applies to: Now Playing screen
• Alternative: Still retains traditional skip buttons

4. Apple Intelligence Language Expansion

iOS 26.1 makes both Apple Intelligence and Live Translation on compatible AirPods available in additional languages, significantly expanding the feature's global reach.

New Language Support

• Apple Intelligence: Now supports Chinese (Traditional and Simplified), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish
• AirPods Live Translation: Same language expansion for real-time translation features
• Localization: Better support for regional language variations
• Siri Improvements: Enhanced understanding of multiple languages

5. Visual Changes Across Apps

iOS 26.1 introduces visual refinements to several core apps:

Calendar App

• Updated visual design with improved readability
• Refined event display
• Better color coding and contrast

Safari

• Visual tweaks to browser interface
• Improved tab management visuals
• Refined address bar design

Photos App

• Updated interface elements
• Improved photo organization visuals
• Refined album view

6. iPad-Specific Improvements

iOS 26.1 beta 2 introduced useful changes to multitasking on the iPad, and beta 3 continues refining these features:

• Improved Split View: Better handling of multiple apps
• Stage Manager Refinements: Enhanced window management
• Multitasking Gestures: More responsive and intuitive gestures

7. Third-Party AI References

Beta 3 includes references to third-party AI integration, suggesting Apple may be preparing to allow external AI services to work alongside Apple Intelligence:

• Framework for third-party AI services
• API improvements for AI integration
• Potential ChatGPT and other AI assistant support

8. Local Capture Toggle

New privacy feature allowing users to control local data capture:

• Toggle in Privacy & Security settings
• Controls what data apps can capture locally
• Enhanced user control over device information

💻 macOS 26.1 Beta 3: The Controversial Macintosh HD Icon

The Icon That Sparked Debate

It turns out Apple TV isn't the only new icon in today's 26.1 beta 3 OS releases. Remember the controversial hard drive icon in macOS Tahoe from over the summer? Apple has changed it again in macOS 26.1 beta 3.

The Evolution of Macintosh HD

Original Icon (Pre-macOS Tahoe)

The old Macintosh HD icon depicted an actual hard drive—it was a metal box that boasted screws, vents, and even a warning sticker. This classic icon was beloved by longtime Mac users for its skeuomorphic detail and connection to Mac history.

macOS Tahoe Beta 5 (August 2025)

In August, the old Macintosh HD icon was replaced with a sleeker aluminum-looking enclosure with rounded edges and a big Apple logo right in the center. This modernized SSD-style icon sparked controversy among users who missed the classic hard drive aesthetic.

macOS 26.1 Beta 3 (October 2025 - Latest)

Apple has once again revised the Macintosh HD icon in beta 3, though specific details about the new design iteration are still being analyzed by the developer community.

Why the Controversy?

The Macintosh HD icon change has proven polarizing for several reasons:

• Nostalgia: The original icon connected to Mac's heritage and physical computing history
• Skeuomorphism vs. Flat Design: Debate over whether icons should reflect real-world objects
• Loss of Character: Some users feel modern designs lack the personality of classic icons
• Educational Value: The old icon helped users understand what a hard drive was
• Multiple Changes: Changing the icon multiple times in one release cycle feels inconsistent

"There's a reason why the save button in so many applications is still a 3.5" floppy disk. Changing the icon to what looks like an external SSD kind of defeats that purpose." - Mac user feedback

Other macOS 26.1 Changes

Apple TV Icon Update

The Apple TV app also received a new icon in beta 3, continuing Apple's system-wide icon refresh.

System-Wide Refinements

• Performance improvements across the OS
• Bug fixes from previous betas
• Security updates and patches
• Compatibility improvements

📅 Release Timeline

iOS & macOS Version History

• September 16, 2025: iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe 26 public release
• September 23, 2025: iOS 26.1 beta 1 released
• October 6, 2025: iOS 26.1 beta 2 released
• October 13, 2025: iOS 26.1 beta 3 and macOS 26.1 beta 3 released
• Expected Late October/Early November 2025: iOS 26.1 and macOS 26.1 public release

📥 How to Download iOS 26.1 Beta 3

For Developers

1. Enroll in Apple Developer Program ($99/year at developer.apple.com)
2. Install Beta Profile:
   • Go to Settings > General > Software Update
   • Tap "Beta Updates"
   • Select "iOS 26.1 Developer Beta"
3. Download Update:
   • Return to Software Update
   • Tap "Download and Install"
   • Enter passcode and agree to terms
4. Installation: Device will restart and install update

For Public Beta Testers

Public beta typically arrives 1-2 days after developer beta:

1. Join Apple Beta Software Program (Free at beta.apple.com)
2. Enroll Your Device:
   • Sign in with Apple ID
   • Enroll your iPhone/iPad
   • Install public beta profile
3. Check for Update:
   • Settings > General > Software Update
   • Download iOS 26.1 Public Beta

How to Download macOS 26.1 Beta 3

Developer Beta

1. Open System Settings
2. Go to General > Software Update
3. Click the (i) button next to "Beta updates"
4. Select "macOS Tahoe 26.1 Developer Beta"
5. Click "Done" and check for updates
6. Download and install

Public Beta

1. Enroll at beta.apple.com
2. Download macOS Public Beta Access Utility
3. Install profile
4. Check Software Update in System Settings
5. Download and install public beta

⚠️ Should You Install Beta Software?

Pros of Installing Betas

• Early access to new features
• Help Apple identify and fix bugs
• Stay ahead of the curve with latest technology
• Test app compatibility before public release

Cons and Risks

• Stability Issues: Betas can be buggy and cause crashes
• Battery Drain: Often worse battery life than stable releases
• App Compatibility: Some apps may not work properly
• Data Risk: Potential for data loss (always backup first)
• Performance: May run slower than stable versions

Best Practices

• Backup Everything: Complete backup before installing any beta
• Secondary Device: Install betas on non-primary devices if possible
• Stay Informed: Follow beta release notes and known issues
• Report Bugs: Use Feedback app to report issues to Apple
• Be Patient: Understand betas are works in progress

🔮 What's Coming in Future iOS 26.x Updates

Apple has outlined several features coming in iOS 26.1 through iOS 26.4:

iOS 26.1 (Current)

• Apple Intelligence language expansion
• AirPods Live Translation in more languages
• UI refinements and design tweaks
• Alarm and timer improvements

iOS 26.2 (Expected December 2025)

• Additional Apple Intelligence features
• Enhanced Siri capabilities
• More Liquid Glass expansion
• Camera improvements

iOS 26.3 (Expected February 2026)

• SharePlay enhancements
• FaceTime improvements
• Privacy features
• Accessibility improvements

iOS 26.4 (Expected April 2026)

• Final iOS 26 feature additions
• Performance optimizations
• Bug fixes and refinements
• Preparation for iOS 27

📱 Device Compatibility

iOS 26.1 Compatible Devices

iOS 26.1 supports the same devices as iOS 26:

• iPhone 16 Pro Max
• iPhone 16 Pro
• iPhone 16 Plus
• iPhone 16
• iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 15 Pro
• iPhone 15 Plus
• iPhone 15
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone SE (3rd generation, 2022)

macOS Tahoe 26.1 Compatible Macs

macOS Tahoe 26 supports Intel and Apple Silicon Macs, with a caveat: At its Platforms State of the Union event at WWDC 2025, Apple announced that macOS Tahoe will be the last major version of macOS that supports Intel-based Macs.

Apple Silicon Macs

• MacBook Air (M1, 2020 and later)
• MacBook Pro (M1, 2020 and later)
• Mac mini (M1, 2020 and later)
• iMac (M1, 2021 and later)
• Mac Studio (2022 and later)
• Mac Pro (M2 Ultra, 2023)

Intel Macs (Final macOS Support)

• MacBook Air (2018 and later)
• MacBook Pro (2018 and later)
• Mac mini (2018 and later)
• iMac (2019 and later)
• iMac Pro (2017)
• Mac Pro (2019 and later)

💡 Tips for Beta Users

Maximizing Your Beta Experience

1. Regular Backups: Backup your device daily while running beta software
2. Monitor Battery: Track battery performance and charging habits
3. Report Bugs Effectively:
   • Use the Feedback app
   • Provide detailed reproduction steps
   • Include screenshots or screen recordings
   • Note device model and iOS version
4. Join Beta Communities: Reddit, MacRumors forums, and Apple Developer forums
5. Keep Informed: Follow beta release notes and known issues lists

How to Revert to Stable iOS

If beta software causes too many issues:

1. Download latest stable iOS IPSW file from Apple
2. Connect device to Mac/PC
3. Open Finder (Mac) or iTunes (PC)
4. Select device and hold Option (Mac) or Shift (Windows)
5. Click "Restore iPhone"
6. Select downloaded IPSW file
7. Restore from backup after downgrade completes

Warning: Downgrading erases all data. Backups from beta versions may not restore on stable versions.

🎯 Community Reactions

iOS 26.1 Feedback

Positive:

• "The slide-to-stop alarm is genius! No more accidentally dismissing my morning alarm." - @TechEnthusiast
• "Apple Music swipe gestures feel so natural. Why didn't this exist before?" - @MusicLover
• "Language support expansion for Apple Intelligence is huge for non-English users." - @GlobalUser

Mixed/Negative:

• "The alarm change is annoying when I actually want to dismiss it quickly." - @EarlyRiser
• "Still waiting for more substantial Apple Intelligence features." - @AIWatcher
• "Battery life seems worse in beta 3." - @PowerUser

macOS 26.1 and Icon Change Feedback

Against the Change:

• "Bring back the classic Macintosh HD icon! The new one has no soul." - @MacPurist
• "Third icon change in one release cycle? Apple needs to make up their mind." - @DesignCritic
• "The old icon was educational. Now it just looks like an external drive." - @OldSchoolMac

Supporting the Change:

• "The new icon is cleaner and more modern. Time to move on from the past." - @ModernMac
• "SSDs have replaced HDDs. The icon should reflect current technology." - @TechRealist
• "Worth the update just for that sleek new look." - @DesignFan

Conclusion

iOS 26.1 beta 3 and macOS 26.1 beta 3 represent Apple's continued refinement of their latest operating systems. From the practical alarm dismissal changes to the controversial Macintosh HD icon redesign, these updates showcase Apple's commitment to both modernization and user experience improvement—even when those goals create tension within the user community.

The slide-to-stop alarm feature addresses a genuine pain point for millions of iPhone users, while language expansion for Apple Intelligence demonstrates Apple's global ambitions for their AI platform. The Liquid Glass design language continues spreading throughout iOS, creating a more cohesive visual experience.

For Mac users, the ongoing Macintosh HD icon saga highlights the delicate balance between honoring Apple's heritage and embracing modern design principles. Whether the latest iteration will be the final version or another step in an ongoing evolution remains to be seen.

As we approach the public release of iOS 26.1 and macOS 26.1, likely in late October or early November 2025, these beta versions give us insight into Apple's priorities: expanding feature availability, refining design consistency, and addressing user feedback—even if that means rethinking controversial changes like the Macintosh HD icon.

For those considering installing the beta: Remember to backup your data, understand the risks, and be prepared for occasional bugs and issues. Beta software is a work in progress, but it offers an exciting glimpse into the future of Apple's platforms.

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