Beta 2 of iOS 17.5, iPadOS 17.5, macOS Sonoma 14.5, Available for Testing
The second beta versions of iOS 17.5, iPadOS 17.5, MacOS Sonoma 14.5, tvOS 17.5, watchOS 10.5, and visionOS 1.2, have been made available by Apple to participants in the beta testing programs for Apple system software.
Both developer and public beta testers are able to access the new builds on any enrolled device that is compatible with the system software version.
What’s coming in iOS 17.5, iPadOS 17.5, macOS Sonoma 14.5, etc?
While beta system software is constantly in flux, you can expect the regular round of security enhancements and bug fixes to be included in these releases.
There are no obvious major new features or changes, though there are changes in iOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5 that are aimed specifically at EU users that allow for downloading apps directly from websites, without having to use the App Store in those countries. This is due to regulatory changes in the EU, and it’s unlikely that such capabilities will carry to other regions, at least without those regions also engaging in similar regulations.
As always with beta system software, things can change during beta releases, and before final versions become available.
When will the final versions of iOS 17.5, iPadOS 17.5, macOS Sonoma 14.5 be Released?
Apple typically goes through several beta versions, often issued weekly or bi-weekly, before releasing a finalized version to the general public. Therefore, we can assume the final versions of iOS 17.5, macOS Sonoma 14.5, et al, will likely be released some time in May.
There’s speculation that the new software updates may arrive alongside some updated Apple hardware, like new iPads. As usual, rumors should be taken with a grain of salt.
How to Download iOS 17.5 beta 2, iPadOS 17.5 beta 2, macOS Sonoma 14.5 beta 2
You must have a device enrolled in the beta programs (developer or public beta), and your Apple ID must also be enrolled to participate. Anyone can do this, but beta system software is aimed at advanced users.
For Mac, macOS Sonoma 14.5 beta 2 can be found 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 iPhone and iPad, finding beta 2 is possible by:
- Go to Settings app, then to “General”
- Go to “Software Update” and choose to install the beta version
Other devices can get the latest beta updates through their respective software update mechanisms.
What are the latest stable Apple system software versions?
The most recent stable final builds of systme software for Apple devices are currently iOS 17.4.1 for iPhone, iPadOS 17.4.1 for iPad, macOS Sonoma 14.4.1 for Mac, watchOS 10.4 for Apple Watch, tvOS 17.4 for Apple TV, and visionOS 1.1.1 for Apple Vision Pro.
