Reports: Next Versions of iOS Will Be Launched as Public Beta

By Kamal Nayan - 21 Feb '15 04:15AM

Apple is planning to release next versions of iOS as public beta - letting public test-drive its pre-release software, according to reports. The iOS 8.3 will be the first iOS version to launch as public beta, followed by iOS 9 in the summer.

According to a report by 9to5mac, Apple will release the iOS 8.3 beta to the public via AppleSeed, which is currently an invitation-only program that lets customers preview certain software. As of now, the iOS 8.3 beta is available for developers which adds features like wireless CarPlay support, Siri improvements and an updated Emoji keyboard.

It's unclear if iOS 8's public betas will receive the same updates as the ones for developers, but 9to5Mac report notes that iOS 9 will be available for public preview after it's unveiled at WWDC in June.

"The main goal of the iOS beta program will be a more reliable and widely tested operating system by the time of the wider consumer launch, as Apple has come under fire for lack of quality control in iOS 8. Launching public beta versions of iOS will also reduce the demand for unauthorized sales of beta downloads from developer accounts, which enabled some consumers to test-drive future iOS features," the report noted.

In another report, 9to5mac noted that the iOS 9 will be more about "stability" and less about adding new features. Apple is also exploring ways to make iOS function faster as a whole, and wants to keep software updates to a manageable download size for iPhone or iPad owners who don't have a ton of storage.

Recently, Apple has patented number of technology including virtual reality display and public transit directions and a Google Maps-esque street view function for Maps.

The iOS 9 is scheduled to be released during the Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC).