Apple has officially released the Release Candidate (RC) build of iOS 26.1 to registered developers and public beta testers. This pivotal build, identified as 30B78, was made available on October 28, 2025, signifying the near-final stage before the operating system's broader public deployment. This release underscores Apple's consistent commitment to refining its latest mobile OS, addressing issues, and introducing targeted enhancements following the initial iOS 26 launch.

The RC version is traditionally the last stop for an operating system update before its general release. And it's expected to roll out to the public within the coming days, with speculation pointing to a late October or early November timeframe, possibly as early as October 31. This accelerated update cycle for 2025 demonstrates Apple's quick response to feedback and its push for rapid iteration on core features, particularly around AI integrations.

The iOS 26.1 RC primarily focuses on stability and performance improvements. It specifically addresses several bugs that surfaced in earlier iOS 26.0 betas, including tweaks to the Always On Display to reduce battery drain. Community feedback, particularly on platforms like Reddit, suggests improved battery life for many, a welcome change that could be up to 5-10% in some internal tests. This build also incorporates optimizations for Apple's latest A17 Pro chips, showing reported 10-15% gains in AI task efficiency.

For developers, the release of the RC is a critical moment. It signals for app developers to finalize their preparations, ensuring their apps are primed and ready for the general public. Historically, RCs are functionally identical to the public release, allowing developers to conduct final compatibility checks and submit updated apps to the App Store. This stability is expected to boost App Store submissions significantly in the coming weeks. Alongside iOS 26.1, Apple also released Release Candidates for iPadOS 26.1, macOS Tahoe 26.1, watchOS 26.1, and tvOS 26.1, ensuring a cohesive ecosystem update across its product lines.

Initial reactions from the developer and public beta communities have been largely positive. Users on social media and forums have expressed enthusiasm for the Liquid Glass toggle, appreciating the newfound control over the UI. Mark Gurman of Bloomberg has characterized the update as "a polished step toward Apple's AI future," highlighting its enhanced stability over previous iOS 26.0 betas. While some users hoped for more extensive Messages app upgrades, the overall sentiment points to a more refined and stable user experience.

Strategically, this update reinforces Apple's aggressive push into deeper AI integration across its ecosystem. The rapid deployment of 26.1, following closely on the heels of 26.0, highlights a faster update cadence aimed at cementing its competitive edge in the evolving mobile AI landscape. For European users, iOS 26.1 also includes further DMA-compliant changes, like easier app data migration, demonstrating Apple's ongoing adaptation to global regulatory requirements. This RC is more than just a bug fix; it's a statement about Apple's commitment to agile development and a continuously evolving user experience.