Before rolling out its updates, Apple releases beta versions of all of its software. The first to benefit are the developers. They can thus discover in preview the new features of the updates and adapt their apps accordingly, but their role is also to identify and report any bugs and security breaches. A few days later, it was the turn of members of Apple's beta software program. Anyone can join the program for free.
The objective of this program is the same as for beta developers; identify and report any security concerns and vulnerabilities to Apple. So it's not just a matter of taking advantage of new updates before everyone else. People joining the beta test community must complete a beta assessment, indicating bugs, concerns and flaws discovered.
Join the program
The procedure to become a beta tester is very simple. You just need to register on the dedicated site using your Apple credentials and indicate the products you have available to test the new Apple operating systems (iOS, macOS, tvOS, ipadOS). After which, when a beta update becomes available, you should receive a notification on your device asking you to download it.
Back up your device
Note that installing a beta version on your device involves risks for the device, but also for the files saved on it, since it is a version of the software that is not yet fully completed. To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is therefore advisable to make a backup of your device and archive the document.
After backing up your device, you can archive the file. From a Mac, after creating a backup, click on "Manage backups" to archive it.
Download Profile
Once you have backed up your device, go to beta.apple.com/profile from your device to download the configuration profile for your Apple product. You just have to install it and follow the installation instructions that appear on the screen.
Beta installation
When a new beta is available, you will receive a notification. You can then install it by going to the Settings of your device, General and then, Software update and select the beta version to install.
The post-test
The beta testing program is an opportunity for Apple to appeal to its community to ensure that its operating systems are ready for public launch. This is why beta testers are invited to complete a beta assessment. This will facilitate the work for the Californian firm. It also receives an anonymized report automatically.
If you prefer to avoid this report being sent to the American company, it is possible. Go to Settings, Confidentiality, Diagnostics and uses and select "Do not send".
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