Apple has rolled out the fifth developer beta of iOS 26.6 for iPhone and iPad, continuing its work on the next‑generation OS iOS 27. The beta has been in testing since late May and already shows two notable changes. First, the limit on the number of contacts you can block has been adjusted, and second, a new anti‑theft feature appears to be in the works. The update may also prepare the Spotlight index that Siri AI will use in the upcoming iOS 27.

Apple’s focus remains on iOS 27, which is expected to be publicly released in September after a summer of refinement. iOS 26.6 will be the next shipping version, building on the foundation set by iOS 26 and its earlier releases. The beta cycle suggests a public release of iOS 26.6 at the end of July, with the first release candidate and official release following in quick succession.

For users not on beta, iOS 26.5 remains current, and iOS 26.6 will serve as the main update until the fall, when iOS 27 arrives.