The iOS 26.1 Release Candidate (RC) represents the final step before public deployment, providing a preview of advanced features and enhancements developed by Apple. This update focuses on improving user experience, improving performance, and ensuring system stability. If you’re considering this update, here’s a detailed look at what it includes and how to effectively prepare your device in a new video from iReviews. We expect the final version of the software next week.
Essential Update Details: Storage and Build Info
Before updating, it is crucial to make sure that your device has enough storage space. iOS 26.1 RC requires around 8 GB to download, but you will need 16-17 GB of free space to complete the installation process smoothly. This extra space is necessary to accommodate temporary files and ensure that the update installs without interruption.
The build number of this version is 23B882which should remain unchanged for the public release unless Apple identifies critical bugs requiring a new release. If you are already running the RC version, you will not need to install the public version unless a new version is released. This approach streamlines the process for beta testers, ensuring a seamless transition without redundant updates.
What’s new in iOS 26.1?
The iOS 26.1 update introduces a series of subtle but impactful improvements aimed at improving usability and functionality. These updates are designed to simplify daily interactions and improve the overall user experience. The main changes include:
- Photos app: Managing your photo library is now more intuitive. A revamped menu for multiple photo selections introduces options like “Hide,” “Favorites,” and “Play as Slideshow,” making it easier to organize and interact with your images.
- Timers and Alarms: A new “slide to turn off” functionality has been added for alarms and timers, providing smoother, more tactile interaction. For users who prefer the traditional one-click method, this can be re-enabled via Accessibility settings.
- Files: Folder titles now feature smaller text and refined alignment, providing a cleaner, more modern visual aesthetic to the interface.
- Siri and Apple Intelligence: Siri Settings now displays a beta badge, signaling ongoing improvements to Apple’s voice assistant. This indicates Apple’s commitment to improving Siri’s capabilities and responsiveness.
These updates reflect Apple’s focus on refining the user interface and features, ensuring a more streamlined and visually appealing experience.
Performance and stability improvements
iOS 26.1 offers notable improvements in performance and stability. Benchmark tests, including Geekbench scores, highlight faster responsiveness and smoother animations, making navigation smoother and efficient. These improvements are especially evident when multitasking and when using resource-intensive applications.
Even if minor bugs persist, they do not disrupt daily use. Apple has prioritized stability in this release, ensuring that users across a wide range of devices can enjoy a reliable and consistent experience. This focus on performance optimization underscores Apple’s commitment to delivering a perfected operating system.
Battery performance: consistency maintained
Battery performance in iOS 26.1 remains consistent with previous versions, including iOS 26 and 26.0.1. While there is no significant improvement in battery life, the update does not introduce any new issues related to battery drain. This consistency ensures that your device maintains its current efficiency, providing a reliable experience for users who rely on their devices throughout the day.
When to expect the public release
The public release of iOS 26.1 is planned for Monday, November 3, at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time. Apple’s release times are generally reliable, although minor delays are always possible. To prepare for the update, it is recommended that you back up your device using iCloud or a computer and ensure that your device meets the storage requirements described previously. Following these steps will help you avoid potential problems and ensure a smooth installation process.
Refinements that matter
The iOS 26.1 release candidate focuses on refinement rather than introducing sweeping changes. By fixing minor issues and improving usability, Apple has delivered an update that prioritizes user satisfaction. Subtle interface tweaks, performance optimizations, and improved features combine to create a more refined experience. Whether you’re a beta tester or waiting for the public release, this update is designed to improve your device without adding unnecessary complexity. Prepare your device now to take full advantage of these improvements as they become available.
Here’s a selection of other guides from our extensive content library that might interest you on iOS 26.1 Release Candidate.
Source and image credit: iReviews
Filed under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News
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