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Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Beta Dates Confirmed
Activision and Infinity Ward have announced the testing timeline for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 across four platforms. Customers who pre-ordered on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S will gain early access to the beta from August 21–25, with a public beta phase following from August 28 through September 1 that includes Nintendo Switch 2. The early window coincides with the Call of Duty Next presentation, which will detail the multiplayer roadmap and reveal additional content plans.
The beta grants players hands-on time with 19 launch weapons and allows them to construct custom loadouts using the new Gunny system while testing established and debut game modes. Players can experience everything from compact three-versus-three engagements to expansive battles featuring vehicles, alongside a newly introduced Kill Block mode. Vault Edition pre-order holders unlock exclusive operator characters, whilst Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders become available on August 26, marking Call of Duty's first appearance on a Nintendo platform in several years.
In short
- Modern Warfare 4 beta testing runs August 21–25 for pre-orders, then opens publicly August 28–September 1 across PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch 2
- Beta includes 19 weapons, new Gunny loadout system, vehicle combat, and both competitive and large-scale game modes
- Full game launches October 23, 2026; Switch 2 pre-orders begin August 26, marking the franchise's return to Nintendo platforms
Explained simply
Call of Duty is one of the world's most popular video game franchises. The next instalment in the series, Modern Warfare 4, will launch later this year, and Activision and Infinity Ward (the companies behind the game) have announced a testing period called a beta, where players can try it before the official release.
The beta will run in two phases across multiple gaming platforms. Customers who pre-ordered the game will get early access from 21 to 25 August, whilst the general public can join from 28 August to 1 September. The testing period is notably the first time the series will appear on Nintendo's new Switch 2 console.
During the beta, players can test various game modes and try out new features and weapons. The testing helps the developers identify and fix problems before the full release, whilst giving fans a chance to try the game and decide whether to buy it. Major franchise releases like this attract significant attention from the gaming community because they shape what people are playing in the coming months.
Call of Duty Entertainment Gaming