Apple just dropped iOS 26 beta 3 for developers, and while it might not be packed with headline-grabbing features, it does come with a subtle but welcome tweak for anyone who cares about personalization: more default wallpaper colors. Released on July 7, 2025, this beta builds on the “Liquid Glass” design theme introduced with iOS 26, giving users a bit more freedom to shape their iPhone’s look.
Key Takeaways:
- iOS 26 beta 3 adds four color options for the default wallpaper: Shadow, Sky, Halo, and Dusk.
- Before this update, only the blue “Sky” variant was available.
- “Dusk” brings a purple/pink hue, a notable departure from the blue-centric theme.
- These colors align with iOS 26’s “Liquid Glass” visual aesthetic.
- It’s another small step toward deeper personalization in iOS.
Up until now, users testing iOS 26 were pretty much limited to variations of blue when it came to the default wallpaper. Beta 3 changes that. Now you’ve got four choices: “Shadow,” “Sky,” “Halo,” and “Dusk.” The first three all stick with shades of blue—each slightly different in mood and depth—but “Dusk” is where things take a turn, introducing a soft purple-pink blend that brings something fresh to the mix.
It’s a modest update, sure. But it reflects Apple’s continued push toward user customization, which has been a growing theme over the past few iOS releases. Not too long ago, default wallpaper options were more or less static. Then came dynamic wallpapers, Live Photos, and eventually full-blown Lock Screen customization with iOS 16—fonts, widgets, even linking Lock Screens to Focus modes. Adding multiple color variants to the default wallpaper feels like a logical, if minor, continuation of that trend.
And let’s be honest—iPhone users really do care about aesthetics. Spend a few minutes scrolling through Reddit or browsing tech forums, and it’s clear: people are always on the lookout for ways to personalize their phones beyond what’s out of the box. Unique wallpapers, third-party themes, tweaks to the Lock Screen—it’s a whole ecosystem of expression. With these new built-in wallpaper options, Apple’s acknowledging that without making users dig through extra downloads.
Then there’s the “Liquid Glass” design itself. It’s not just about wallpapers—it’s a whole visual philosophy for iOS 26. Think translucency, reflection, and this smooth, almost fluid feel across app icons, control panels, and more. The new wallpaper options are designed to complement that look, working like visual background singers for the main aesthetic.
If you’ve installed iOS 26 beta 3 and want to give the new wallpapers a try, it’s simple. Head over to Settings > Wallpaper, tap Add New Wallpaper, and select the default iOS 26 option. From there, you’ll see the new variants: Shadow, Sky, Halo, and Dusk. Pick the one that suits your vibe.
Of course, iOS 26 isn’t finalized yet. The full public release is expected sometime this fall, after more rounds of beta testing and feedback. But if beta 3 is any indication, Apple’s paying close attention to visual refinement and user preferences—and sometimes, those little touches can make the whole experience feel just a bit more personal.
FAQ Section
Q1: What are the new color options for the default iPhone wallpaper in iOS 26 beta 3?
A1: The new options are Shadow, Sky, Halo, and Dusk.
Q2: Was the default wallpaper available in different colors in previous iOS 26 betas?
A2: No, earlier iOS 26 betas only included the blue “Sky” variant.
Q3: How do these new wallpaper options fit with the “Liquid Glass” design?
A3: They align with the fluid, reflective look of iOS 26, helping to reinforce its cohesive visual style.
Q4: Will these wallpaper color options be available in the official iOS 26 release?
A4: Yes, they are expected to be included in the final public release.
Q5: How do I access these new wallpapers on my iPhone?
A5: Once you have iOS 26 beta 3 or later, go to Settings > Wallpaper > Add New Wallpaper, then choose the default iOS 26 wallpaper to see the available color variants.
