Apple Expands iOS 26 Wallpaper Options with New ‘Dusk’ Colorway
Apple is offering users a wider range of aesthetic choices for their iPhones with the latest iOS 26 beta release. The tech giant rolled out iOS 26 beta 3 today, introducing four distinct color options for the operating system’s new default wallpaper – a significant expansion from the single blue variant available in previous beta versions.
Every year, Apple refreshes the default wallpaper accompanying its iOS updates, often including multiple color variations. This year, the company is taking a more expansive approach, giving users greater personalization options before the full launch of iOS 26 this fall.
Previously, users participating in the iOS 26 beta program were limited to a single blue wallpaper. However, with beta 3, Apple now provides the following choices:
- Shadow
- Sky
- Halo
- Dusk – a striking new purple/pink option
According to a company release, Shadow, Sky, and Halo represent different shades and tones of blue, offering subtle variations within a familiar color palette. The addition of Dusk, however, provides a more vibrant and unique alternative.
The evolution of the iOS 26 wallpaper options highlights a shift in Apple’s approach to customization. Earlier beta versions featured alternate blue wallpapers that dynamically adjusted based on the user’s system appearance settings – lighter shades for light mode and darker shades for dark mode. Now, the three distinct blue variants exist independently of these settings, alongside the eye-catching Dusk color.
“This is a welcome change for users who enjoy personalizing their devices,” one analyst noted. “Offering more upfront choices demonstrates Apple’s commitment to user experience and aesthetic preferences.”
Apple encourages users to share their feedback on the new wallpapers and other features within the iOS 26 beta program. The company continues to refine the operating system throughout the summer, incorporating user input before the official public release.
What do you think of Apple’s new wallpapers in iOS 26 beta 3? Let us know in the comments.
