First Beta of iOS 17.5, macOS Sonoma 14.5, iPadOS 17.5 Released for Testing
Apple has released the first beta versions of a round of upcoming future software updates, versioned as iOS 17.5 for iPhone, macOS Sonoma 14.5 for Mac, iPadOS 17.5 for iPad, tvOS 17.5 for Apple TV, watchOS 10.5 for Apple Watch, and visionOS 1.2 for Apple Vision Pro.
The betas are available now to users enrolled in the developer beta testing programs for Apple system software. Typically the same build is quickly released for public beta testers as well.
What is new in betas for iOS 17.5, iPadOS 17.5, macOS Sonoma 14.5?
It’s unclear what the focus of these beta versions will be for the time being, but presumably they will focus on bug fixes and security enhancements for the various operating systems.
It’s possible that some minor new features or changes will also be included.
How to Download iOS 17.5 beta 1, iPadOS 17.5 beta 1, macOS Sonoma 14.5 beta 1
If your Apple ID and associated device is enrolled in the beta programs, you can find the beta software system updates available right now.
For iPhone and iPad users in the beta programs, iOS 17.5 beta can be downloaded on the device easily:
- Go to Settings app, then to “General”
- Go to “Software Update” and choose to install the beta version
For Mac beta testers, macOS Sonoma 14.5 beta is available on an enrolled Mac by going to:
- Go to Apple menu > System Settings
- Go to “General” and then to “Software Update”
- Choose to download and install macOS Sonoma beta
For tvOS, watchOS, and visionOS betas, you can download those beta versions on enrolled devices through their respective software update mechanisms.
Should I run iOS 17.5 beta, iPadOS 17.5 beta, macOS Sonoma 14.5 beta?
Beta system software is intended for advanced users who have a compelling reason to beta test operating systems on their devices. This is typically developers, engineers, designers, and other users who need to test their software or web apps with upcoming system software. Some curious tinkerers also install beta updates, but those tend to be advanced users as well.
The vast majority of users should not install or run beta system software on their devices. Beta system software is buggier and less stable than final versions of system software.
What is the most recent non-beta versions of Apple system software then?
Currently, the latest versions of stable versions of system software are macOS Sonoma 14.4.1 for Mac, iOS 17.4.1 for iPhone, iPadOS 17.4.1 for iPad, watchOS 10.4 for Apple Watch, tvOS 17.4 for Apple TV, and visionOS 1.1.1 for Apple Vision Pro.
