Apple releases software updates for the iPhone, Apple Watch or Mac on a regular basis. These updates usually improve the performance, stability and security of the devices, as well as include new functions and features. System changes require some caution, so before releasing them to the general public Apple rolls them out in the form of beta versions.
If we are developers or advanced users and we want to test the new features before anyone else, we can install beta versions of the software on different devices. Before doing so, however, keep in mind that these versions are usually more unstable and may contain bugs, something typical of the nature of a beta that is launched just to detect and improve these errors.
The grace and risk of upgrading to a beta version
As the process involves certain risks and there is a possibility that we may have to revert back to a stable version, it is highly recommended to make a backup of all data before starting. Then there is something we should be clear about. Apple’s beta program is divided into the developer version, which is released earlier and may have more bugs, and the public program that takes longer to arrive, but does so in a more stable way.
If we want to update the iPhone before anyone else, it is necessary to have a developer profile to be able to install the beta versions of the software on our devices. This profile allows us to download and install beta versions of the software from Apple. So, once registered in the developer program, all we have to do is download the profile. Then the steps to follow are these:
- Open the Settings app on the iPhone.
- Click on the downloaded profile.
- Install the profile accepting all the conditions.
- Restart the iPhone.
- Open the Settings app again.
- Go to General and then Software Update.
- Click on Download and install the latest version that appears.
In the case of the Apple Watch, the process of installing a beta version of the software is similar. The only difference is that we will install the profile from the Watch app on our iPhone. Then, a visit to Settings > General > Software Update is enough.
Finally, if we want to install a beta version of the software on the Mac, as before, we will need to download and install the developer profile that comes in an installation file. Once installed, without the need to reboot, the system will open the Software Update section within System Settings and we will be able to install the new version.
Installing a beta version of the software on Apple devices can be quite interesting, as it allows us to test the latest features before others, for example Apple Music Classical. However, it can also be risky, as these versions are often unstable and may contain bugs. If we decide to install a beta version of the software, be sure to make a backup of all data (and may have done some cleaning of the iPhone before) and do it on a device that is not in daily use. If in doubt, some more waiting until a public version is the best option.
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