iOS 17
Apple has started to hand out the fourth developer betas of iOS 17.2 and iPadOS 17.2 to participants in its beta program.
Developers sighnbed up to the beta-testing program can get the newest builds by visiting the Apple Developer Center or by updating their iPhone or iPad through the Settings app. Public beta versions generally appear shortly after the developer versions, and public participants can sign up through the Apple Beta Software Program website.
The fourth iOS 17.2 and iPadOS 17.2 betas arrive after the third, which shipped on November 14. The second landed on November 9, while the first were introduced on October 26.
The fourth beta’s build number is 21C5054b, replacing the third, build number 21C5046c.
The first build of iOS 17.2 included numerous changes, including Journal, a privacy-focused journaling app. The Apple TV app now has more emphasis on channels under Watch Now.
Favorites Playlist is added to Apple Music, along with collaborative playlists. iMessage sticker reactions allow users to react with a sticker, but as an attached sticker instead of an integrated tapback.
Other alterations include being able to assign Translate to the Action button, additional Weather widgets, iMessage Contact Key Verification, and an Apple Music Focus Filter.
The second beta added Spatial Video recording for the iPhone 15 Pro, which could help Apple Vision Pro users who want to try out the related imaging features.
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.
