How to Install a Beta Version of iOS

Edited 6 months ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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Installing a beta version of iOS can be an exciting way to try out new features before they are officially released. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process to help ensure a smooth installation. Beta versions are pre-release versions, so they may still contain bugs and issues. Therefore, it is recommended to install the beta version on a secondary device if possible.

Requirements

Before you begin you will need the following:

• An Apple Developer account or an Apple Beta Software Program account.
• A compatible iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.
• A stable internet connection.
• Backup of your current device data.

Step 1: Back up your device

It's very important to create a backup of your device in case something goes wrong during the installation process. You can back up your device using iCloud or iTunes.

To back up using iCloud:

1. Open the Settings app on your iOS device.
2. Tap your Apple ID name at the top.
3. Tap iCloud.
4. Scroll down and tap iCloud Backup.
5. Tap on ‘Back up now’ and make sure the backup is completed successfully.

Backing up using iTunes:

1. Connect your iOS device to your computer via USB cable.
2. Open iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later).
3. When your device icon appears in the software, select it.
4. Click Summary in the sidebar.
5. Click Back up now.
6. Wait for the process to complete, make sure the backup is finished properly.

Step 2: Enroll in the Apple Beta Software Program

If you're not already a member of the Apple Developer Program, you can enroll in the Apple Beta Software Program. This is a free program that allows you to try out public betas.

1. Visit the Apple Beta Software Program website.
2. Click Sign Up and use your Apple ID to log in.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to enroll your device.

Step 3: Download the beta profile

Once you're enrolled in the Apple Beta Software Program, you'll need to download a beta profile to your device, which provides access to beta software updates.

1. From your device, go to the Apple Beta Software Program website.
2. Click Download Profile.
3. A pop-up will appear asking for permission to install the profile; tap Allow.
4. Go to the Settings app on your device.
5. Tap Downloaded Profile at the top.
6. Tap Install in the top right corner.
7. Enter your passcode if prompted.
8. Tap Reinstall when the consent form appears, and then tap Install in the popup.
9. Once the installation is complete, restart your device when prompted.

Step 4: Install the iOS beta

After installing the beta profile, your device will be ready to download and install the iOS beta version.

1. Open the Settings app on your device.
2. Go to General > Software Update.
3. Wait while the device checks for updates.
4. When you receive a beta update, tap Download and Install.
5. Enter your passcode if prompted.
6. If terms and conditions appear, accept them.
7. Your device will begin downloading the iOS beta software. This may take some time depending on your internet connection.
8. When the download is complete, tap Install Now.
9. Your device will reboot and the installation process will begin. This may also take some time, so be patient.
10. After the installation is complete, your device will reboot again.
11. Once the device is backed up, you may need to go through a quick setup process, similar to when you set up a new iOS device.
12. Your device will now be running the iOS beta version.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any problems during the installation process, here are some general troubleshooting steps:

• Make sure you have enough battery: Make sure your device has at least 50% battery or is connected to a power source.
• Check your Internet connection: Make sure your Wi-Fi connection is stable.
• Restart your device: Sometimes a simple restart can solve the problem.
• Re-download the profile: If the update doesn't appear, try re-downloading and reinstalling the beta profile.
• Contact Apple Support: If you're still having problems, contact Apple Support for further assistance.

Reverting to a stable version of iOS

If you need to get your device back to a stable version of iOS, you'll need to restore your device using iTunes or Finder.

1. Connect your iOS device to your computer using a USB cable.
2. Open iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later).
3. When your device icon appears in the software, select it.
4. Click Summary in the sidebar.
5. Click Restore iPhone/iPad.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to restore your device to the latest stable iOS version.
7. After the restore is complete, you can restore your device from the previously created backup.

Important Considerations

• Beta software bugs: Beta versions are software under development and may contain bugs, crashes, or other problems. Always be prepared for potential problems.
• App compatibility: Some apps may not be optimized for the beta version and may behave unexpectedly or not work at all.
• Battery life: Battery performance may be less stable, as beta versions tend to have debugging tools running in the background.
• Feedback: Apple encourages beta users to provide feedback through the Feedback app included with the beta software.

Conclusion

Installing a beta version of iOS can be a fun and rewarding experience. It allows you to try out new features and improvements before they are widely available. However, always remember that beta software can be unstable and may not include all the final features planned for public release. Use this guide to safely install a beta version and always make sure you have a suitable backup before proceeding. Enjoy exploring the new features of iOS beta!

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