RC of iOS 14.7, iPadOS 14.7, macOS Big Sur 11.5 Released for Testing

Apple has issued a RC (Release Candidate) build of iOS 14.7, iPadOS 14.7, and macOS Big Sur 11.5 to users who are participating in the beta testing programs for system software.

RC builds indicate the development process has ended (barring any major bugs or issues), and typically signify the final version is to be released to the public soon. Accordingly, it would be reasonable to expect the final version to be released sometime within the coming days or week.

RC versions of tvOS 14.7 and watchOS 7.6 are also available.

macOS Big Sur 11.5 RC includes some improvements to the Podcasts and Music app, but otherwise likely focuses on small bug fixes and security improvements.

iOS 14.7 RC and iPadOS 14.7 RC include support for Apple Card Family, along with some improvements to Podcasts and Music app. iOS 14.7 RC also includes support for MagSafe Battery Packs. Small bug fixes and security improvements are also likely included.

Remember, these beta releases are for the current generation OS releases, which are different from the ongoing beta testing programs for iOS 15, iPadOS 15, and macOS Monterey 12. If you’re a more casual user on the beta track you’re likely on those next-generation releases and would not see the 14.7 and 11.5 updates available.

If you’re in the beta programs, you can find the RC beta updates available now for iOS and iPadOS by going to Settings > General > Software Update, where they’ll find iOS 14.7 RC and iPadOS 14.7 RC.

For macOS, the macOS Big Sur 11.5 RC update is available to download via  Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Update.

Again, RC builds are typically indicative of nearing completion and an imminent public release of software, so it is reasonable to expect final versions of iOS 14.7, iPadOS 14.7, macOS Big Sur 11.5, tvOS 14.7, and watchOS 7.6 in the near future.

Users who are running iOS 15 public beta, iPadOS 15 public beta, or MacOS Monterey 12 public beta, will not see the RC builds or final versions of iOS/iPadOS 14.7 and macOS 11.5 available, since they are technically on newer versions of system software.