Beta 2 of macOS Sonoma 14.4, iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, Available for Testing

Apple has issued the second beta versions of iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, macOS Sonoma 14.4, watchOS 10.4, tvOS 17.4, along with the first beta version of visionOS 1.1 for Apple Vision Pro.

What new features are expected in betas of iOS/iPadOS 17.4, macOS Sonoma 14.4?

These beta updates to iOS, iPadOS, and macOS include a few new features like transcripts within the Podcasts app, HomePod SharePlay support, and new Emoji characters including a mushroom, shaking head, lime, and broken chain. Additional emoji are typically incredibly popular and drive many users to software updates.

The typical array of bug fixes and security enhancements are also likely to be included in the final releases.

European users will see the biggest changes in the new iOS beta system software, as Apple is working to comply with new regulations from the European Union, offering alternative methods to install apps that are outside of the Apple App Store. These changes are specific and limited to the EU, and are unlikely to be available to other regions anytime soon.

It’s important to remember that beta system software is actively under development, and features can change at any time before being finalized and released to the general public.

Downloading the latest betas

Betas are intended for advanced users only. You must have a device enrolled in the beta programs for Apple system software. This is easy to do after you agree to the beta terms from Apple, and the beta toggle can be activated through the Software Update section of your device at any time.

iPhone and iPad beta testers can download iOS 17.4 beta 2 and iPadOS 17.4 beta 2 from Settings app > General > Software Update.

Mac beta testers can download macOS Sonoma 14.4 beta 2 by going to the  Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Update.

WatchOS betas can be installed through the Watch app on the paired iPhone, while tvOS betas can be installed directly from the Apple TV on an enrolled device.

When will iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, macOS Sonoma 14.4, be released to everyone?

Apple usually goes through multiple variations of beta releases before issuing a final version to the general public, which suggests the final releases of iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, and macOS Sonoma 14.4 are still weeks way.

Apple has said via press release to expect the iOS 17.4 software updates sometime in March, and it’s likely that the other system updates will be finalized and released at the same time.

Forget the betas, what’s the latest stable Apple system software that is currently available?

If you’re not interested in beta system software, you may be curious what the latest system software versions are for major Apple devices.

Presently, iOS 17.3, iPadOS 17.3, iOS 16.7.5, iPadOS 16.7.5, iOS 15.8.1, are the most recent versions of system software for iPhone and iPad, while macOS Sonoma 14.3, macOS Ventura 13.6.4, and macOS Monterey 12.7.3 are the latest versions of MacOS available.