Apple has just released beta 3 for iOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5 to developers. The software update for the best iPhones is available for developers signed up to the program to use for testing purposes. Those developers enrolled in the program will find the new software in the Settings app under Software Update.
The latest update comes a week after iOS 17.5 beta 2 arrived, and three weeks after Apple first rolled out the iOS 17.5 beta. This version only contains bug fixes and enhancements to make the software more stable ahead of the full roll-out in the coming weeks.
iOS 17.5 contains more minor features than anything groundbreaking. Most of the biggest features of iOS 17 are already released. There's a minor update to the podcast widget for the home screen, and some other changes to the app ecosystem in line with the EU's requirements. You'll also find Quartiles, Apple's new word game. that rivals Wordle in the Apple News app.
The public release draws closer
It looks like Apple is slowing things down on the iOS front ahead of WWDC 2024. iOS 17.5 beta 3 doesn't contain any major new features, but rather bug fixes and stability enhancements. This is as Apple gets closer to the public roll-out, which we're expecting to be released at the beginning of May. It would make sense for this software release to coincide with Apple's 7 May "Let Loose" event, where we expect to see new iPads unveiled.
At the developer conference, we expect to see the announcement of iOS 18 – Apple's next major update. Here, we expect a slew of new features, the biggest of which will be powered by AI. Siri is set to get a major overhaul thanks to AI, as well as other new features across the iPhone experience.
Remember that you should only install and use new iOS developer betas with caution, and should avoid using it on your main device where possible. Beta testers and developer getting their hands on it allows them to provide Apple with feedback, which can be used to implement the update at a later date. If you're signed up to the developer betas, you'll see the new software when you try to update your iPhone.
