Apple Releases First iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS Sonoma Betas

Apple announced major iterations of its different operating systems back at WWDC 2023 in June alongside the availability of Developer Beta. For iOS 17, Apple added numerous features such as Contact Posters, NameDrop, StandBy mode, and Live Stickers, among others. In addition to new apps like Journal, there are updates to Visual Look Up and FaceTime for supported Apple iPhone models to boot.

The same goes for iPadOS 17, which added productivity tools and extended customizations for compatible iPad and iPad Pro models. Similarly, users can also test the watchOS 10 beta with updated app designs and Fitness+ on their Apple watches. Furthermore, macOS Sonoma received a handful of features dedicated for Macs and MacBooks too, including Presenter Overlay and interactive widgets.

If you're a member of Apple's Software Beta program, you can already install any of these updates over-the-air. However, not all features announced in June are coming with these beta builds. Hence, Apple is expected to introduce the next installments after the first beta of iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS Sonoma for a wider number of testers.

Fixed Rapid Security Response update for iOS 16

Apple also released a Rapid Security Response (RSR) update for iOS 16 users. The security patch carrying version number iOS 16.5.1 rolled out a couple of days ago, but the iPhone manufacturer eventually pulled it after acknowledging the firmware broke certain websites when browsing in Safari. It seemed to have resolved this issue with a new RSR release.

The definitive iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and watchOS 10 versions will be available this fall. This will coincide with announcements of the iPhone 15 and Apple Watch Series 9, although there is no confirmation on the exact date yet.

Do you intend to install the public beta of these operating systems or are you waiting for the final and stable release? Share your plans with us in the comments.