An AI Diagnosis, iPadOS 26 First Look, and How to Beta Test Without Breaking Everything
If you’re itching to try iPadOS 26, or just curious how far AI has crept into everyday life, this episode is for you.
Tom and Jeff share how well (or not) AI played doctor, deliver a first look at the iPadOS 26 developer beta, and break down how to beta test like a pro (without nuking your device).
You’ll get honest impressions of the new floating windows, updated UI, Preview on iPad, the surprise “Games” app—and what it all feels like in day-to-day use. Plus: how Jeff tested it, what crashed, and what delighted.
Will Tom install the beta? What did his doctor say when he quoted ChatGPT? And what’s the one thing you should do before installing any beta? It’s all here in a fast, fun 35 minutes.
Links:
Question or Comment? Send us a Text Message!
Contact Us
- Drop us a line at feedback@basicafshow.com
- You’ll find Jeff at @reyespoint on Threads and reyespoint.bsky.social on Bluesky
- Find Tom at @tomanderson on Threads
- Join Tom’s newsletter, Apple Talk, for more Apple coverage and tips & tricks.
- Tom has a new YouTube channel
- Show artwork by the great Randall Martin Design
Enjoy Basic AF? Leave a review or rating!
- Review on Apple Podcasts
- Rate on Spotify
- Recommend in Overcast
Intro Music: Psychokinetics - The Chosen
Transcripts and some images are AI generated and may contain errors and general silliness.
...
00:00 - Intro
01:33 - Health Check and AI in Medicine
07:31 - Exploring iPadOS 26 Beta Features
18:16 - New Apps and Functionality in iPadOS 26
22:22 - User Experience and Design Changes
24:52 - Preparing for Public Beta Testing
25:22 - Expectations and Precautions for Beta Users
28:32 - The Importance of Feedback in Beta Testing
30:09 - Diving into Other OS Betas
32:12 - CarPlay Enhancements
35:01 - Close