Apple Opens iOS 14 & iPadOS 14 Public Beta Program

As mentioned during the recent WWDC session, Apple has opened up their Public Beta Software program for non-developers to check out the new software for iOS and iPad devices. Previously, only paying developer accounts could access this beta software. Also, this is the first time Apple Watch users will be able to join the program and try out the beta of WatchOS 7 although at the moment, that beta is not in the public beta program for installation. Mac OS11 aka “Big Sur” is also available to try out.

Once you sign up for the Apple Beta Software Program, you will be able to add your devices to the beta system and be able to download the software updates for those devices. You’ll also be able to give your feedback on the new features, directly to Apple using their new Feedback Assistant app.

As with any beta software, it’s highly recommended to only install these updates to secondary devices and not your important, primary ones. Being beta software, things don’t always go smoothly and not all of your existing apps will necessarily work. That said, we’ve been using the beta since it was first made available and haven’t encountered much, if any, hiccups. But your experience may vary so proceed with caution!

The full release of iOS 14 will happen this fall, presumably when they launch a new iPhone. Check out our full set of posts about the new features in these software updates from WWDC 2020.