The term identifies a pre-release version of Apple’s mobile operating system, iOS 18, made available to the general public for testing purposes. This program enables users to experience and evaluate new features and functionalities before the official, final version is distributed. The distribution of this testing software allows for broader identification of potential bugs and compatibility issues, contributing to a more stable final product.
This process is a critical stage in software development, offering valuable insights from a diverse range of user experiences. By gathering feedback from a large user base, developers can refine the system and address any problems that may not have been apparent during internal testing. This beta period helps to ensure a smoother and more polished user experience upon the operating system’s general availability. Historically, this type of public engagement has significantly improved the quality and stability of software releases across various platforms.