The designation refers to a pre-release version of Apple’s mobile operating system intended for testing and development purposes. It allows developers and select users to experience and evaluate upcoming features and changes before a public release. This iteration follows prior versions and provides a platform for identifying and addressing potential issues.
The availability of such pre-release software provides several advantages. It enables developers to ensure their applications are compatible with the latest OS updates, minimizing disruptions for users upon public launch. Furthermore, user feedback gathered during the beta phase helps Apple refine the software, leading to a more stable and feature-rich final product. Its release marks a significant step in the software development lifecycle, indicating progress towards a more polished and improved user experience.