The third beta version of iOS 17.1 is now accessible for download.
Macworld
One week after iOS 17 was released, Apple began public testing for the initial major update. The first beta for iOS 17.1 was made available to developers on September 27, 2023.
Multiple major updates for iOS 17 are planned to be released in the upcoming autumn season. These updates will include collaborative playlists for Apple Music, a new Journal app, PDF form autofill, NameDrop for Apple Watch, and other exciting features. Additionally, Apple typically makes subtle changes to the interface and adds unannounced features in these updates, making it important to pay attention to the initial iOS 17 updates.
As of 10/10/23, the third iOS 17.1 beta is now accessible for developers. Any additional features that are discovered will be added to this article.
iOS 17.1 new features
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Some of the findings in the beta versions of iOS 17.1.2 have been uncovered.
Notification sounds: The new ringtones and text tones that were added to iOS 17 were not present in the initial version of the iOS 17.1 beta, but were later restored in the second beta version.
Reworded: The StandBy settings now include options to automatically turn off the display when the room is dark, after 20 seconds, or to never turn off.
The feature of Double-tap on Apple Watch Series 9 was introduced in watchOS 10.1 (beta 2 and later). In the iOS 17.1 Watch app, there are several options available to customize its function.
Instead of simply “liking” content in Apple Music, you now have the option to “Favorite” songs, artists, albums, and playlists. These items will be saved to your library and will influence the recommendations for music suggestions.
AirDrops over the internet will now be available with the release of iOS 17.1 beta. This update includes the highly anticipated feature that allows AirDrop transfers to continue even if you move away from the person before the transfer is completed.
When customizing your playlist on Apple Music, you have the option to choose from a variety of generic artwork if you do not wish to use a photo or four random album covers.
When an iPhone is placed in a pocket or bag, the Camera, Flashlight, Voice Memo, Focus, and Magnifier features will not be activated by pressing the Action button. However, functions such as Mute or Shortcut that are practical for use in a pocket will still function normally.
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Installing the public beta version of iOS 17.1
To be one of the first to try out iOS 17, you can enroll in the public beta testing program. The method for installing a beta version has been updated in iOS 16.4. Here is the updated process:
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To join the Apple Beta program, click on the Sign Up button located on the Apple Beta page and use your Apple ID to register.
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Sign in to the Beta Software Program.
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Please select “Enroll” for your iOS device.
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To access the Settings app, first tap on General and then select Software Update.
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Choose the iOS Public Beta option in the Beta Updates section.
After you register, it may take a few moments for the beta option to show up in Software Update.
The public beta for iOS 17 was launched on July 12. We recommend that most users wait for it, as public betas can be buggy. However, the early developer betas of significant OS updates tend to have even more errors and may be incomplete.
Version 17.1 of iOS: Guide for Installing the Developer Beta
To access the developer beta, you must have a registered Apple developer account. Starting with iOS 17, it is not necessary to be enrolled in the $99 per year developer program. A free developer account will suffice, which can be obtained through Xcode or the Apple Developer app on iOS. Follow these steps to acquire one through the Apple Developer app:
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Get the Apple Developer App from the App Store.
- Open the app.
- Tap on Account.
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Log in using your typical Apple ID.
To sell apps on the App Store, a $99/£79 yearly fee is required for a paid account. You can register for the Apple Developer Program via their website or through the Developer App. A comparison of the free and paid accounts is available here.
Developers who have registered can opt for the Public Beta by selecting iOS Public Beta on the Software Update screen. It may take some time for the option to appear in Software Updates after registering as a developer.
Certain developers have a separate Apple ID for their developer privileges, which may not be the same as the one linked to their personal Apple account and information. To utilize a distinct Apple ID for beta testing purposes, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates and choose the designated Apple ID at the bottom of the page.
Find out everything you need to know about iOS 17 in our iOS 17 superguide.
