It’s been a month since the release of iOS 17.4, which introduced some minor changes (like new emojis) for all users, but it brings a massive change in app distribution for those in the European Union. In accordance with the Digital Markets Act, this version allowed alternative app stores, changed policies and terms regarding apps, browsers using their own engines, etc.
Typically, a new version of iOS is followed almost immediately by a beta of the next point release, so the absence of an iOS beta for a month is a strange phenomenon. We expect the beta to continue for at least a few weeks; the final version of iOS 17.5 might not even arrive until May.
What’s new in iOS 17.5
The beta is still pretty new, so we don’t have much information about what’s coming in iOS 17.5. We will update this article throughout the beta as more important features are discovered.
App downloads from websites (EU only): Another feature compliant with the European Digital Markets Act, iOS 17.5 allows users to download apps directly from websites. In order to offer these downloads, developers must overcome significant hurdles (including being a registered developer for two years and having existing apps with over 1 million downloads in the previous year).
Tracking unwanted items: According to 9to5Mac, the 17.5 beta includes references to a new anti-stalking feature that works with third-party trackers as well as AirTags. The new Find My app language reads: “This item is not certified on the Apple Find My network. You can disable this item and prevent it from sharing its location with the owner.
New Apple Pencil and tap gesture (iPadOS only): MacRumors found code in the iPadOS 17.5 beta that references a new Apple Pencil “V4” and a potential new “tap” gesture for certain actions. A new Apple Pencil is rumored to be on the way along with a new iPad Pro and iPad Air, which could launch in May.
iOS 17.5: How to install the public beta
If you want to be among the first to install iOS 17.5, 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 17.5: 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.
