The term refers to a pre-release version of Apple’s mobile operating system, specifically version 18.5, made available to the general public for testing purposes. This allows users outside of Apple’s internal development teams to experience and provide feedback on new features and changes before the final, stable release. For example, a user might download and install this pre-release software on their iPhone to evaluate a redesigned app interface.
Releasing a pre-release version is crucial for identifying and resolving software bugs, compatibility issues, and usability problems that might not be apparent during internal testing. By gathering feedback from a large and diverse user base, the software developer can improve the quality and stability of the final product. Historically, such releases have allowed for crucial refinements, addressing user concerns and leading to a smoother experience upon general availability.