It’s not uncommon for Apple to release two beta versions of iOS at the same time over the summer. While the longer-term iOS beta for fall is underway (it’s iOS 18 this year), a smaller version of the current version is being tested for a more immediate release (it’s is iOS 17).
So yes, all the cool new features are in the iOS 18 beta, but Apple also just released the first developer beta of iOS 17.6. The final version will likely arrive in a few weeks, well before the planned release of iOS 18 in September.
New iOS 17.6 features
The beta community hasn’t noticed any significant changes in iOS 17.6 and we don’t expect to see any. We don’t expect any late iOS 17 features, so it’s unlikely anything big will arrive in the update.
This release is likely only intended to fix minor bugs in apps and keep up with necessary security updates. Apple doesn’t release release notes until the release candidate and security updates are often released after the final release. The developer’s release notes only mention a very minor Bluetooth audio bug and a limited camera issue with two specific iPad models.
iOS 17.6: How to install the public beta
If you want to be among the first to install iOS 17.6, you can sign up for the public beta and get the release candidate now. The process for installing a beta has changed in iOS 16.4. Here’s how the new process now works:
- Click Sign Up on the Apple Beta page and sign up with your Apple ID.
- Log in to the beta software program.
- Click on Register your iOS device.
- Open it Settings application, tap GeneralSO Software update.
- In the Beta Updates section, select the iOS public beta.
It may take a few moments after signing up for the beta option to appear in the software update.
iOS 17.6: How to install the developer beta
You will need to be registered as an Apple developer. Starting with iOS 17, you don’t need to participate in the $99 per year developer program to access the developer beta. A free developer account will do the trick. You can get one through Xcode or the Apple Developer app on iOS. Here’s how to do it via the Apple Developer app:
- Download the Apple Developer app from the App Store.
- Open the app.
- Tap Account.
- Sign in using your regular Apple ID.
Registered developers can choose to get the public beta by selecting iOS Public Beta in the Software Update screen. It may take a little time after registering as a developer for the option to appear in software updates.
Find out everything you need to know about iOS 17 in our iOS 17 superguide.
