Apple’s iPadOS 26.1 Beta 3: What’s New and How to Get It
▼ Summary
– Apple has released public beta 3 for iPadOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, watchOS 26.1, and other software updates.
– The update introduces a redesigned, more colorful Apple TV app icon across iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, and macOS.
– iPadOS 26.1 public beta 3 adds a ‘Local Capture’ menu in Settings for managing audio and video recording options.
– User-facing changes are minimal as Apple focuses on bug fixes and performance improvements ahead of the late October public launch.
– Slide Over remains unchanged, supporting only a single app at a time in this beta version.
Apple has rolled out the third public beta for iPadOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, and watchOS 26.1, bringing users one step closer to the anticipated final release expected in late October. This latest build introduces subtle but noteworthy changes, including a redesigned Apple TV app icon and enhanced settings for the Local Capture feature, while focusing heavily on stability refinements as the official launch date approaches.
The most visible update in public beta 3 is a vibrant new Apple TV app icon, which now appears across iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, and macOS. This refreshed design aligns with Apple’s recent decision to streamline the Apple TV+ service under the unified “Apple TV” branding. While the change is largely cosmetic, it signals the company’s ongoing effort to create a consistent visual identity across its ecosystem.
Another meaningful addition in iPadOS 26.1 beta 3 is the new Local Capture menu located within the Settings app. Found under General → Local Capture, this menu lets users specify where their recorded audio and video files are stored in the Files app. It also includes a handy Audio Only toggle, giving podcasters and content creators more flexibility when capturing calls or meetings. Local Capture was first introduced in iPadOS 26 as a productivity tool, and these settings provide finer control over how media is saved.
Beyond these adjustments, public beta 3 appears to concentrate on under-the-hood optimizations. Apple seems to be prioritizing bug fixes and performance enhancements as the software nears its public debut. With fewer user-facing alterations in this round, testers can expect a more polished and reliable experience compared to earlier builds.
One feature that remains unchanged is Slide Over, which continues to support only one app at a time. Despite feedback from beta testers hoping for multi-app functionality, Apple has not yet expanded this capability. It remains to be seen whether future updates will reintroduce this popular multitasking option.
Have you noticed any other changes or improvements in the latest iPadOS 26.1 public beta? Share your findings in the comments below.
(Source: 9to5Mac)
