Apple Beta Software FAQ
Comprehensive answers to all your questions about Apple's beta software, organized by categories.
Installation & Setup
Everything you need to know about installing and setting up iOS 19 beta
To get the iOS 19 beta, you have two options:
-
Developer Beta: If you're a registered Apple developer (annual fee of $99), you can download the developer beta immediately after WWDC25 in June 2025:
- Sign in to the Apple Developer website with your Apple ID
- Go to the Downloads section
- Download the iOS 19 beta profile
- Install the profile on your iPhone
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update to download and install the beta
-
Public Beta: Available to everyone through the Apple Beta Software Program (free):
- Sign up at beta.apple.com with your Apple ID
- Enroll your device and download the beta profile
- Install the profile on your iPhone
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update to download and install the beta
Note: The public beta typically releases a few weeks after the developer beta, expected in July 2025.
Important: Always back up your device before installing beta software, as it may contain bugs and could potentially cause data loss.
iOS 19 will be available at different times depending on which version you're looking for:
- Developer Beta: Available immediately after the WWDC25 keynote in June 2025 for registered Apple developers.
- Public Beta: Expected to be available in July 2025, a few weeks after the developer beta.
- Official Release: The final, stable version of iOS 19 is expected to be released in September 2025, alongside the new iPhone models.
The exact dates will be announced by Apple during WWDC25. We'll update our website with the official dates as soon as they're announced.
Updating to iOS 19 is straightforward, but the process differs slightly depending on whether you're installing the beta or the official release:
- Back up your iPhone using iCloud or your computer
- Download the iOS 19 beta profile from the Apple Developer site or Apple Beta Software Program
- Open the profile file and follow the on-screen instructions to install it
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- The iOS 19 beta update should appear
- Tap "Download and Install"
- Enter your passcode and agree to the terms
- Wait for the download to complete and the update to install
- Back up your iPhone
- Connect to Wi-Fi and ensure your battery is charged above 50% or connect to power
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- iOS 19 will appear when it's officially released
- Tap "Download and Install"
- Enter your passcode and agree to the terms
- Wait for the download and installation to complete
Note: Beta updates may require more free storage space than official releases. Make sure you have at least 5GB of free space before attempting to update.
Backing up your device before installing iOS 19 beta is crucial. Here are two methods to create a complete backup:
- Connect your iPhone to a Wi-Fi network
- Go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup
- Turn on iCloud Backup if it's not already enabled
- Tap "Back Up Now" and stay connected to Wi-Fi until the process completes
- Verify the backup was successful by checking the "Last successful backup" time
- Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable
- On a Mac with macOS Catalina or later: Open Finder and select your device from the sidebar
- On a Mac with macOS Mojave or earlier, or on a PC: Open iTunes and click the device icon
- Click "Back Up Now" (in Finder or iTunes)
- To create an encrypted backup (recommended), select "Encrypt local backup" and set a password
- Wait for the backup process to complete
- Verify the backup was successful by checking the date and time under "Latest backup"
Important: An encrypted backup (via computer) is strongly recommended before installing beta software as it includes all your passwords and health data. If you need to downgrade later, this will make the restoration process much smoother.
You have two options for accessing iOS 19 beta, and only one requires a developer account:
- Requires an Apple Developer Program membership ($99/year)
- Available immediately after WWDC25 announcement (June 2025)
- Provides access to the earliest beta builds
- Includes access to developer tools, documentation, and support
- Intended for app developers to test their applications
- Typically less stable than public betas
- Available through the Apple Beta Software Program (free)
- Released 2-3 weeks after the developer beta (expected July 2025)
- More stable than the initial developer betas
- Intended for enthusiasts who want to try new features early
- Includes the Feedback Assistant app for reporting bugs
- No developer tools or advanced features
If you're not a developer and just want to try the new features, waiting for the public beta is recommended. It's free and typically more stable than the earliest developer builds.
The official way to install iOS 19 beta without a developer account is through the Apple Beta Software Program:
- Visit beta.apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID
- Click "Enroll Your Devices" and select iOS
- Follow the instructions to download the beta profile
- On your iPhone, go to Settings and install the profile
- Restart your device when prompted
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update to download and install the beta
Note: The public beta is typically released 2-3 weeks after the developer beta, so you'll need to wait a bit longer than developers.
Important: We do not recommend using unofficial methods to install developer betas without a developer account. These methods may violate Apple's terms of service and could potentially harm your device or compromise your security.
Features & Compatibility
Information about iOS 19 features and device compatibility
As of now, iOS 19 is the upcoming beta version expected to be announced at WWDC25 in June 2025. The current latest stable version is iOS 18, which was released in September 2024.
When iOS 19 beta is released, it will go through multiple beta versions:
- iOS 19 Developer Beta 1 (expected June 2025)
- iOS 19 Developer Beta 2 (expected 2-3 weeks after Beta 1)
- iOS 19 Public Beta 1 (expected July 2025)
- Multiple beta iterations throughout summer 2025
- iOS 19 Release Candidate (expected late August/early September 2025)
- iOS 19 Official Release (expected September 2025)
We'll update this page with the latest beta version information as soon as it becomes available. Check back regularly for updates on the latest iOS 19 beta releases.
Based on Apple's typical support patterns, iOS 19 is expected to be compatible with the following iPhone models:
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XR
Note: This list is based on Apple's historical support patterns. The official list of supported devices will be confirmed by Apple during WWDC25 in June 2025.
For a detailed breakdown of all compatible devices, including iPads, Apple Watches, and more, visit our complete iOS 19 compatibility guide.
Yes, the iPhone 13 series will definitely get iOS 19. This includes all models in the iPhone 13 lineup:
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
The iPhone 13 series was released in 2021 with iOS 15. Apple typically provides 5-6 years of iOS updates for iPhone models, so the iPhone 13 should continue to receive updates through iOS 21 or iOS 22 (around 2027-2028).
Not only will the iPhone 13 series get iOS 19, but it should also be able to take advantage of most of the new features. The A15 Bionic chip in the iPhone 13 series is still a very capable processor that should handle the demands of iOS 19 without issue.
You can download the iOS 19 beta for your iPhone 13 as soon as it's available in June 2025 (developer beta) or July 2025 (public beta).
Yes, iOS 19 is expected to be compatible with the iPhone 11 series. This includes:
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11
The iPhone 11 series was released in 2019 with iOS 13. Based on Apple's typical support patterns, these devices should continue to receive updates for at least 5-6 years from their release date, which means iOS 19 should be available for them.
However, it's important to note that some of the more advanced features of iOS 19 might be limited on the iPhone 11 series due to hardware constraints. The A13 Bionic chip, while still capable, may not support all of the latest AI and computational features that might be introduced in iOS 19.
Note: The iPhone 11 series may be approaching the end of its iOS update cycle in the next year or two. iOS 19 could potentially be one of the last major updates for these devices, though this is speculative until Apple makes an official announcement.
While Apple hasn't officially announced iOS 19 features yet, based on rumors and industry analysis, here are some expected new features:
- Advanced on-device AI capabilities for improved privacy
- Expanded Siri functionality with more natural conversations
- AI-powered photo and video editing tools
- Smart content generation for messages and emails
- Improved context awareness across the system
- Redesigned Control Center with more custom ization options
- Enhanced Home Screen customization with new widget styles
- More granular notification controls
- Expanded theme options beyond light and dark mode
- Custom app icon support without shortcuts
- Enhanced tracking prevention features
- Improved password management and passkey support
- More detailed privacy reports
- Advanced anti-phishing protections
- Expanded end-to-end encryption across more services
- Improved battery optimization
- Faster app loading times
- Enhanced multitasking capabilities
- More efficient memory management
- Reduced thermal impact during intensive tasks
- New Messages app features and effects
- Enhanced FaceTime capabilities
- Improved cross-platform communication
- Advanced voice isolation in calls
- New emoji and communication tools
These features are based on rumors and industry analysis. The official features will be announced by Apple during WWDC25 in June 2025. We'll update this page with confirmed features as soon as they're announced.
No, not all iOS 19 features will work on older iPhone models. Apple typically limits certain features to newer devices based on hardware capabilities. Here's what to expect:
- Advanced AI features will likely require at least A15 Bionic or newer chips (iPhone 13 and newer)
- Camera-related features often require specific camera hardware found only in newer models
- Display features like Always-On may require ProMotion displays (iPhone 14 Pro and newer)
- Some computational photography features may be limited to Pro models
- Certain augmented reality features may require LiDAR scanners (Pro models)
- iPhone 15/16 Series: Full feature support
- iPhone 13/14 Series: Most features supported, possibly with some AI limitations
- iPhone 11/12 Series: Core features supported, but likely missing advanced AI and computational features
- iPhone XR/XS: Basic feature support, with significant limitations on newer capabilities
Note: Apple will provide a detailed breakdown of feature availability by device model when iOS 19 is officially announced. Some features may be available on older devices but with reduced functionality or performance.
Troubleshooting & Problems
Solutions for common issues with iOS 19 beta
Installing beta software always comes with risks. Here's what you should know before installing iOS 19 beta:
- Increased battery drain and overheating
- App crashes and compatibility issues
- System instability and random restarts
- Potential data loss if not properly backed up
- Reduced performance, especially in early betas
- Cellular, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth connectivity issues
- Camera or other hardware functionality problems
- Always create a full backup before installing any beta
- Install on a secondary device, not your primary phone
- Wait for later beta versions which tend to be more stable
- Be prepared to restore to the stable release if needed
- Don't install on devices used for critical purposes (work, emergency contact, etc.)
- Public betas are generally more stable than developer betas
Important: Beta software is unfinished and not intended for everyday use. Only install iOS 19 beta if you're comfortable with the risks and are prepared to deal with potential issues.
Battery drain is a common issue with beta software. Here are several ways to improve battery life on iOS 19 beta:
- Update to the latest beta version (newer betas often include battery optimizations)
- Restart your iPhone (this can resolve temporary system issues)
- Check Battery Health in Settings > Battery to ensure your battery is in good condition
- Identify battery-draining apps in Settings > Battery and limit their use
- Disable Background App Refresh for non-essential apps
- Lower screen brightness or enable Auto-Brightness
- Turn on Low Power Mode (Settings > Battery)
- Disable "Hey Siri" and reduce Siri suggestions
- Turn off unnecessary location services (Settings > Privacy > Location Services)
- Disable automatic downloads and updates
- Reduce motion and animations (Settings > Accessibility > Motion)
- Turn off Push email and set fetch intervals longer
- Reset all settings (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings)
- Delete and reinstall problematic apps
- Perform a clean install of the beta rather than updating
- Report the issue to Apple via the Feedback Assistant app
Note: Some battery drain is expected and normal with beta software as optimization is typically finalized in later betas. If battery life is critical for you, consider waiting for the official release or later beta versions.
Yes, you can remove iOS 19 beta and revert to a stable iOS version, but the process requires erasing your device and restoring from a backup. Here's how:
- Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management
- Select the iOS 19 Beta Profile and tap "Remove Profile"
- Restart your device
- Your iPhone will no longer receive beta updates
- When the next official iOS release comes out, you'll be able to update to it
Note: This method doesn't immediately downgrade your device. You'll remain on the beta until the next official release.
- Put your iPhone in Recovery Mode:
- For iPhone 8 or newer: Press and quickly release Volume Up, press and quickly release Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen
- For iPhone 7: Press and hold the Side and Volume Down buttons simultaneously until you see the recovery mode screen
- Connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes or Finder
- When prompted, choose "Restore" (this will erase all content and settings)
- Your device will be restored to the latest official iOS release
- After restoration, you can restore your data from a backup made before installing the beta
Important: Any backup created while running iOS 19 beta cannot be restored to an earlier iOS version. You must use a backup created before installing the beta, or set up your device as new. This is why creating a backup before installing beta software is critical.
App crashes are common during beta testing as developers need time to update their apps for the new iOS version. Here's what you can do:
- Force close the app and reopen it
- Restart your iPhone
- Check the App Store for updates to the app
- Clear the app's cache (if the app has this option in its settings)
- Make sure you're running the latest beta version of iOS 19
- Delete and reinstall the app (note: this may delete app data)
- Check if the app developer has a beta version available for testing
- Contact the app developer to report the issue
- Try using an alternative app until the issue is resolved
- Report the crash to Apple using the Feedback Assistant app
- Use the Feedback Assistant app included with the beta
- Include detailed steps to reproduce the crash
- Attach screenshots or screen recordings if possible
- Note the exact app version that's crashing
- Include any error messages you see
Remember: App crashes are expected during beta testing. Critical apps that you rely on daily should be tested before installing the beta, or you should have alternative apps available.
Reporting bugs is an important part of the beta testing process. Here's how to effectively report issues in iOS 19 beta:
- Open the Feedback Assistant app (pre-installed on beta versions)
- Sign in with your Apple ID (same one used to enroll in the beta)
- Tap the "+" button to create a new report
- Select the appropriate category for your issue
- Fill out the form with detailed information about the bug
- Include steps to reproduce, expected behavior, and actual behavior
- Attach screenshots, videos, or logs if available
- Submit your feedback
- Be specific and concise in your description
- Include exact steps to reproduce the issue (numbered steps are best)
- Mention if the issue is reproducible or intermittent
- Note your device model, iOS version, and app version (if applicable)
- Describe both the expected behavior and what actually happened
- Include only one issue per report
- Check if the issue has already been reported by searching existing feedback
- Web: Visit feedbackassistant.apple.com
- Mac: Use the Feedback Assistant app on macOS
- For app-specific issues, also report to the app developer directly
Your feedback helps improve iOS for everyone. Apple reviews bug reports to prioritize fixes for future beta releases and the final public release.
Developer Questions
Information for developers working with iOS 19 beta
Testing your app with iOS 19 beta is essential to ensure compatibility when the final version is released. Here's how to do it effectively:
- Join the Apple Developer Program ($99/year) if you haven't already
- Download Xcode 17 beta from the Apple Developer portal
- Install iOS 19 beta on test devices (not your primary devices)
- Update your development environment to support the latest SDKs
- Simulator Testing: Use the iOS 19 simulator in Xcode 17 beta
- Device Testing: Install your app on physical devices running iOS 19 beta
- TestFlight: Distribute beta versions of your app to external testers
- Automated Testing: Update and run your automated test suites
- Manual Testing: Perform thorough manual testing of all app features
- UI layout and appearance (check for any rendering issues)
- Core functionality and user flows
- Performance and responsiveness
- Integration with system features (notifications, widgets, etc.)
- Background processes and app lifecycle
- Network operations and API calls
- Data persistence and state management
- Accessibility features
- Start testing early with the first beta release
- Retest with each new beta version
- Document issues and track their resolution
- Report bugs to Apple using Feedback Assistant
- Implement fixes and optimizations for iOS 19
- Test on multiple device types and screen sizes
- Check for deprecated APIs and update accordingly
Remember to review Apple's documentation for iOS 19, including release notes, API changes, and new features that might affect your app. Early testing gives you time to address issues before the public release.
While the specific APIs for iOS 19 haven't been officially announced yet, based on industry trends and rumors, here are some potential new APIs that might be introduced:
- Enhanced Core ML frameworks with more efficient on-device processing
- New Natural Language Processing capabilities
- Advanced image recognition and scene analysis APIs
- Improved speech recognition and voice processing
- On-device generative AI capabilities
- New widget frameworks and customization options
- Enhanced SwiftUI components and layouts
- Improved accessibility frameworks
- Advanced animation and transition APIs
- New Control Center and Lock Screen customization APIs
- Battery optimization frameworks
- Enhanced background processing capabilities
- Improved memory management APIs
- Advanced multitasking support
- New system extension points
- Enhanced passkey support and management
- New privacy controls and transparency features
- Advanced encryption capabilities
- Improved authentication frameworks
- Enhanced App Privacy Report integration
The official list of new APIs will be announced during WWDC25 in June 2025. Apple will provide detailed documentation, sample code, and sessions to help developers adopt these new technologies. We'll update this information once the official announcement is made.
Apple hasn't officially announced which APIs will be deprecated in iOS 19 yet. This information will be available after WWDC25 in June 2025. However, based on Apple's typical approach to API lifecycle management, here's what developers should be aware of:
- Older UIKit APIs that have SwiftUI replacements
- Legacy networking APIs in favor of newer async/await patterns
- Older Core Data APIs as newer alternatives are introduced
- Certain privacy-impacting APIs as Apple continues to enhance privacy
- APIs that were marked as deprecated in iOS 17/18 may be removed entirely
- Review your codebase for warnings about deprecated APIs in current iOS versions
- Watch for compiler warnings when building with the iOS 19 SDK
- Check the iOS 19 release notes and documentation when available
- Attend or watch WWDC25 sessions that cover API changes
- Plan for migration to replacement APIs before the final iOS 19 release
- Test your app thoroughly with each beta release
- APIs are typically marked as deprecated before being removed
- Deprecated APIs usually continue to work for at least one major iOS version
- Compiler warnings will alert you to deprecated API usage
- Documentation will indicate replacement APIs or alternative approaches
- Some APIs may be soft-deprecated (discouraged but not formally marked)
Important: Once iOS 19 beta is released, review the official documentation and release notes for a complete list of deprecated APIs. Early adoption of replacement APIs will ensure your app remains compatible with future iOS versions.
Preparing your app for iOS 19 involves several steps to ensure compatibility and take advantage of new features. Here's a comprehensive preparation plan:
- Ensure your app is fully compatible with iOS 18
- Address any existing technical debt or known issues
- Update to the latest versions of third-party libraries and SDKs
- Review your app for deprecated API usage
- Implement comprehensive automated tests
- Document your current app architecture and dependencies
- Watch the keynote and developer sessions related to your app's functionality
- Review new APIs and frameworks that could benefit your app
- Note any deprecated APIs that your app currently uses
- Understand new design guidelines and UI changes
- Identify any new requirements or permissions your app might need
- Create a prioritized list of changes needed for iOS 19 compatibility
- Install Xcode 17 beta and iOS 19 beta on test devices
- Build your app with the iOS 19 SDK and address any compiler warnings
- Run your automated test suite and note any failures
- Perform manual testing of all critical user flows
- Test your app on different device types and screen sizes
- Identify and fix any compatibility issues
- Report bugs to Apple using Feedback Assistant
- Update to each new beta release and retest your app
- Implement support for relevant new iOS 19 features
- Optimize your app for any performance improvements in iOS 19
- Update your app's UI to align with new design patterns if needed
- Conduct beta testing with external users via TestFlight
- Refine and polish your implementation based on feedback
- Finalize all iOS 19 compatibility changes
- Complete thorough testing on the Release Candidate
- Update your App Store screenshots if your UI has changed
- Prepare your App Store listing to highlight iOS 19 features
- Submit your updated app to App Review before the public release
- Plan a marketing campaign around your iOS 19 support if appropriate
Starting early and being methodical in your approach will ensure a smooth transition to iOS 19. Remember that early betas may have bugs, so maintain flexibility in your development timeline to accommodate changes in later betas.
iPadOS 19 Beta FAQ
Answers to common questions about iPadOS 19 beta
iPadOS 19 will follow the same release schedule as iOS 19:
- Developer Beta: Available immediately after the WWDC25 keynote in June 2025.
- Public Beta: Expected in July 2025, a few weeks after the developer beta.
- Official Release: Expected in September 2025, alongside iOS 19.
Apple typically releases iPadOS and iOS simultaneously, so the dates should align with the iOS 19 release schedule.
Based on Apple's typical support patterns, iPadOS 19 is expected to be compatible with the following iPad models:
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation)
- iPad Air (5th generation)
- iPad Air (4th generation)
- iPad Air (3rd generation)
- iPad (10th generation)
- iPad (9th generation)
- iPad (8th generation)
- iPad mini (6th generation)
- iPad mini (5th generation)
Note: This list is based on Apple's historical support patterns. The official list of supported devices will be confirmed by Apple during WWDC25 in June 2025.
While Apple hasn't officially announced iPadOS 19 features yet, based on rumors and industry analysis, here are some expected new features:
- Improved Split View with more flexible window arrangements
- Enhanced Stage Manager with better external display support
- More desktop-like window management
- Improved app switching and multitasking gestures
- Advanced Apple Pencil features and improved handwriting recognition
- Enhanced keyboard shortcuts and navigation
- Improved file management system
- Better integration with Mac for continuity features
- More professional-grade apps optimized for iPad
- Enhanced video and photo editing capabilities
- Improved support for external devices and peripherals
- Better utilization of M-series chips in iPad Pro models
- On-device AI capabilities for content creation and editing
- Enhanced Siri functionality specific to iPad use cases
- Smart document scanning and processing
- AI-powered note-taking and organization
These features are based on rumors and industry analysis. The official features will be announced by Apple during WWDC25 in June 2025. We'll update this page with confirmed features as soon as they're announced.
watchOS 12 Beta FAQ
Answers to common questions about watchOS 12 beta
watchOS 12 will follow a similar release schedule to iOS 19:
- Developer Beta: Available immediately after the WWDC25 keynote in June 2025.
- Public Beta: Expected in July 2025. Note that watchOS public betas typically start later than iOS public betas.
- Official Release: Expected in September 2025, alongside iOS 19 and the new Apple Watch Series 11.
Important: Unlike iOS, downgrading watchOS is not possible without sending your Apple Watch to Apple. Only install watchOS betas if you're comfortable keeping that version until the next update is released.
Based on Apple's typical support patterns, watchOS 12 is expected to be compatible with the following Apple Watch models:
- Apple Watch Series 10 (expected to be released in 2024)
- Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Apple Watch Series 9
- Apple Watch Ultra
- Apple Watch Series 8
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch SE (2nd generation)
- Apple Watch SE (1st generation)
Note: Apple Watch Series 5 and earlier models may not be supported by watchOS 12. The official list of supported devices will be confirmed by Apple during WWDC25 in June 2025.
Installing the watchOS 12 beta requires a few steps and has some important prerequisites:
- An Apple Developer account (for developer beta) or enrollment in the Apple Beta Software Program (for public beta)
- A compatible Apple Watch
- An iPhone running the iOS 19 beta (watchOS betas require the corresponding iOS beta)
- At least 50% battery on your Apple Watch
- Your Apple Watch must be connected to its charger during the update
- Install the iOS 19 beta on your paired iPhone first
- On your iPhone, go to the Apple Developer website or Beta Software Program website
- Download the watchOS 12 beta profile
- Open the profile and install it on your Apple Watch (not your iPhone)
- You may need to restart your Apple Watch after installing the profile
- On your iPhone, go to the Watch app > General > Software Update
- The watchOS 12 beta should appear
- Tap "Download and Install"
- Place your Apple Watch on its charger and keep it there until the update completes
- The update may take 30-60 minutes or longer to complete
Important Warning: Unlike iOS, there is NO WAY to downgrade watchOS without sending your Apple Watch to Apple. Only install the watchOS beta if you're comfortable using it until the next update is released.
tvOS 19 Beta FAQ
Answers to common questions about tvOS 19 beta
tvOS 19 will follow the same release schedule as iOS 19:
- Developer Beta: Available immediately after the WWDC25 keynote in June 2025.
- Public Beta: Expected in July 2025, a few weeks after the developer beta.
- Official Release: Expected in September 2025, alongside iOS 19.
Apple typically releases tvOS alongside iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS, so the dates should align with the iOS 19 release schedule.
Based on Apple's typical support patterns, tvOS 19 is expected to be compatible with the following Apple TV models:
- Apple TV 4K (4th generation, expected in 2024/2025)
- Apple TV 4K (3rd generation, 2022)
- Apple TV 4K (2nd generation, 2021)
- Apple TV 4K (1st generation, 2017)
- Apple TV HD (2015)
Apple TV models typically have longer support cycles than iPhones or iPads, so even older models often receive the latest tvOS updates.
Installing the tvOS 19 beta on your Apple TV can be done in two ways:
- On your Apple TV, go to Settings > System > Software Updates > Get Beta Updates
- Sign in with your Apple ID that's enrolled in the Apple Developer Program or Apple Beta Software Program
- Select the tvOS 19 beta
- Go back to Settings > System > Software Updates
- Select "Update Software" to download and install the beta
- Connect your Apple TV and Mac to the same network
- On your Apple TV, go to Settings > Remotes and Devices > Remote App and Devices
- On your Mac, open Xcode
- Go to Window > Devices and Simulators
- Select your Apple TV when it appears
- Click on "Pair with Apple TV"
- Enter the verification code displayed on your Apple TV
- Once paired, you can install the tvOS beta using Xcode
Note: Unlike iOS or watchOS, tvOS betas are generally more stable and less risky to install on your primary device. However, it's still a beta, so some apps or features may not work correctly.
macOS 16 Beta FAQ
Answers to common questions about macOS 16 beta
macOS 16 will follow a similar but slightly delayed release schedule compared to iOS 19:
- Developer Beta: Available immediately after the WWDC25 keynote in June 2025.
- Public Beta: Expected in July 2025, a few weeks after the developer beta.
- Official Release: Expected in October 2025, typically a few weeks after iOS 19.
Note: macOS releases typically come a few weeks after iOS releases. While iOS 19 is expected in September 2025, macOS 16 will likely be released in October 2025.
Based on Apple's typical support patterns and the transition to Apple Silicon, macOS 16 is expected to be compatible with the following Mac models:
- MacBook Air (M1, 2020 and later)
- MacBook Pro (M1, 2020 and later)
- iMac (M1, 2021 and later)
- Mac mini (M1, 2020 and later)
- Mac Studio (M1 Max/Ultra, 2022 and later)
- Mac Pro (M2 Ultra, 2023 and later)
- MacBook Air (2018 and later)
- MacBook Pro (2018 and later)
- Mac mini (2018 and later)
- iMac (2019 and later)
- iMac Pro (2017)
- Mac Pro (2019)
Note: As Apple continues its transition to Apple Silicon, macOS 16 may drop support for some older Intel Macs. The official list of supported devices will be confirmed by Apple during WWDC25 in June 2025.
Installing the macOS 16 beta requires a few steps and some important preparations:
- Back up your Mac using Time Machine or another backup solution
- Ensure you have at least 20GB of free storage space
- Have an Apple Developer account or be enrolled in the Apple Beta Software Program
- Consider installing on a secondary partition or external drive for testing
- Go to the Apple Developer website and sign in with your Apple ID
- Navigate to the Downloads section
- Download the macOS 16 Developer Beta Access Utility
- Run the utility, which will enroll your Mac in the beta program
- Open System Settings > General > Software Update
- The macOS 16 beta should appear as an available update
- Click "Upgrade Now" to download and install the beta
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation
- Your Mac will restart several times during the installation process
- Go to beta.apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID
- Click "Enroll Your Devices" and select macOS
- Click "Download the macOS Public Beta Access Utility"
- Run the downloaded utility to enroll your Mac in the beta program
- Open System Settings > General > Software Update
- The macOS 16 public beta should appear as an available update
- Click "Upgrade Now" to download and install the beta
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation
Important: macOS betas can be less stable than iOS betas and may affect your ability to work productively. Consider installing on a secondary Mac or a separate volume if you rely on your Mac for important work.
visionOS 3 Beta FAQ
Answers to common questions about visionOS 3 beta
visionOS 3 will follow a similar release schedule to iOS 19:
- Developer Beta: Available immediately after the WWDC25 keynote in June 2025.
- Public Beta: Expected in July 2025, a few weeks after the developer beta.
- Official Release: Expected in September 2025, alongside iOS 19.
As visionOS is still a relatively new operating system, Apple is likely to align its release with iOS to ensure compatibility across the ecosystem.
visionOS 3 is expected to be compatible with the following devices:
- Apple Vision Pro (1st generation)
- Apple Vision Pro (2nd generation, if released by then)
- Any new Vision devices that Apple may announce in 2024-2025
As the Vision product line is still new, all existing models are expected to receive the visionOS 3 update. Apple typically provides software updates for its devices for several years.
Installing the visionOS 3 beta on your Apple Vision Pro requires a Mac and follows a process similar to iOS beta installation:
- An Apple Developer account (for developer beta) or enrollment in the Apple Beta Software Program (for public beta)
- A Mac running macOS 16 beta
- Xcode 17 beta installed on your Mac
- A USB-C cable to connect your Vision Pro to your Mac
- Your Vision Pro should be charged to at least 50%
- Back up your Vision Pro before installing the beta
- Download the visionOS 3 beta profile from the Apple Developer website or Beta Software Program
- Connect your Vision Pro to your Mac using a USB-C cable
- Open Xcode 17 beta on your Mac
- Go to Window > Devices and Simulators
- Select your Vision Pro from the list of devices
- Click on "Pair with Vision Pro" if it's not already paired
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install the visionOS 3 beta
- Your Vision Pro will restart after the installation is complete
Important: As with other beta software, visionOS 3 beta may contain bugs and could affect the performance of your Vision Pro. Only install if you're comfortable with potential issues.