iOS 17
Apple’s third round of developer betas has arrived and new builds of iOS 17.1 and iPadOS 17.1 are now available to download.
Developers taking part in the testing program can obtain the latest builds by visiting the Apple Developer Center or updating their iPhone or iPad through the Settings app. Public beta versions generally appear a short time after the developer versions, and participants can sign up through the Apple Beta Software Program website.
The third iOS 17.1 and iPadOS 17.1 beta builds replace the second, from October 3, which took over from the first, which landed on September 27. The new build number is 21B5066a, replacing the previous second build, 21B5056e.
The first iOS 17.1 beta altered the Music app with a playlist of favorite songs, the heart has been replaced to a star, more album art customization options, and a new section for recommended tracks.
AirDrop over the Internet also arrived, as well as bank balance support in Apple Wallet for UK users, new flashlight icons on iPhone 14, and ringtone changes were also included.
The second beta added display options for Standby mode, some ring tone changes, and widget options.
AppleInsider and Apple strongly suggest users don’t install test operating systems or other beta or RC software on “mission-critical” or primary devices, as there is the small chance of issues that could result in the loss of data. Testers should instead use secondary or non-essential hardware and ensure they have sufficient backups of their critical data at all times.
