Installing iOS 27? Don’t skip this crucial step first

Apple has released the public beta of iOS 27 following its WWDC 2026 announcement, giving iPhone users early access to the company’s next major software update months before its official launch. While the beta includes new features and interface improvements, Apple and technology experts agree on one important piece of advice before installing it: back up your device first.

According to Laikas.lt, the public beta offers an opportunity to explore upcoming changes ahead of the expected full release this fall. However, because beta software is still under development, users should expect occasional bugs, compatibility issues and shorter battery life.

Back up your iPhone before installing

The most important step before downloading iOS 27 is creating a complete backup of your iPhone.

As reported by Laikas.lt, a backup allows you to restore your device if you decide to return to the stable version of iOS or if something goes wrong during testing. This is particularly important if you rely on your iPhone for work, banking, authentication apps or other essential services.

Apple also recommends backing up devices before installing any beta software, as pre-release versions may contain unexpected issues.

How to install the iOS 27 public beta

Before downloading the update, make sure your iPhone supports iOS 27 and that you have enough available storage.

According to Laikas.lt, you’ll need to enroll your Apple ID in the free Apple Beta Software Program. After registering, open Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates, select the iOS 27 Public Beta, and install it just as you would any standard software update.

Remember that it’s still unfinished software

Although the public beta is generally more stable than the earliest developer releases, it is not the final version of iOS 27.

Laikas.lt notes that some apps may not function correctly, certain features could change before the official release and performance issues—including reduced battery life—are still possible. Users who value stability above all else may prefer to wait until Apple releases the finished version later this year.

Public betas are available across Apple’s ecosystem

The iOS 27 public beta is not the only preview currently available.

According to Laikas.lt, Apple has also opened public beta testing for several of its other operating systems, including iPadOS, macOS and watchOS, although availability depends on device compatibility.

Many technology experts recommend installing beta software on a secondary device rather than your primary smartphone whenever possible. Doing so reduces the risk of losing access to important apps or services if unexpected software problems occur during testing.

For users who enjoy trying the latest Apple features before everyone else, the iOS 27 public beta offers an early glimpse of what’s coming. But as Laikas.lt emphasizes, taking a few minutes to create a full backup beforehand is one precaution that can save hours of frustration if anything goes wrong during the beta period.