Beta testers can try out pre-release versions of iOS, iPadOS, macOS & tvOS. Here’s how you can get on to Apple’s beta program.
If you’ve ever wanted to take an early look at new versions of Apple’s operating systems before they launch, and maybe help shape them in the process, then Apple’s beta program is something you should consider. This initiative allows developers and public beta testers to gain access to the updates before they’re released, so they can help test for bugs and give any new features a thorough workout before they’re unleashed on the general public.
Apple will reveal the details of the next round of operating system updates at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), which kicks off with a keynote on Monday June 9 at 10am PT. Soon after the keynote closes the first developer betas of iOS 19, iPadOS 19, watchOS 12, and macOS 16 will arrive and anyone who wants to install them will be able to test them out ahead of the public release in September.
In this article, we explain how to get involved with testing the betas, but also point out some of the reasons why you may wish to give it a pass and wait for the final versions to arrive.When will the Apple betas come out?
The first developer betas will arrive just after the WWDC keynote on June 10, around noon PT.
The first public betas are likely to arrive in early July.Developer beta vs public beta
The developer beta is, as the name suggests, intended for developers only, but Apple does offer a beta testing program for members of the public who would like to try out new features and find bugs. The public beta is slightly safer to use than the developer beta, but we would still suggest caution: don’t install the beta on your only iPhone or your work Mac just in case you encounter problems.
Developer Beta: Meant for developers who need to get their apps working on the new operating system. The developer beta arrives immediately following the keynote and usually a day or two before subsequent public betas. You need to be a member of Apple’s developer program to install developer betas, but you don’t need to pay the annual $99 fee anymore to get the beta.
Public Beta: Usually a few steps behind the developer beta, which essentially means that the public beta will be slightly more stable. There is usually a slightly longer wait until the first version of the public beta arrives, but once the programs are underway there are usually only a few days between the developer beta being released and the public version arrives.
Test that your apps work on the upcoming Apple software.Is Apple’s beta program free?
Apple’s beta program is a chance for volunteers to download a beta version of the new operating system for their device and test it out. Best of all, it’s completely free because even the developer beta no longer requires paid membership.
It used to be necessary for developers to sign up for the full Apple Developer Program, which costs $99/£79 a year, but since 2023 you can get the developer beta with a free developer account.How to join Apple’s beta program
Apple runs a Beta Software program via which you can get beta copies of its operating system software before they are released to the public.
