Apple will officially discontinue beta profiles starting from iOS 17, iPadOS 17, macOS 14, and watchOS 10. Instead, you will use the Apple ID enrolled in the Apple Beta Software Program (also known as Public beta) and Apple Developer Program (Developer beta) to receive beta updates in the future.
To continue using beta software, you need to register your Apple ID in one of the above-mentioned programs. Here’s how to do it.
Note that the Apple Beta Software Program (also known as Public beta) is free, while the Apple Developer Program (Developer beta) costs $99/year.
Usually, Developer beta updates are released a few days earlier than Public beta. However, for the first major release (such as iOS 17 beta), Developer beta will be released right after Apple’s keynote at WWDC, while Public beta will be released about a month later (usually in July).
How to join the Apple Beta Software Program
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To join the Apple Beta Software Program, please visit beta.apple.com. Tap on Sign up button, then log in with your Apple ID.
You can use a different Apple ID to join, it doesn’t have to be the Apple ID you’re signed in with on your device. -
Tap on Accept button to agree with the terms and conditions.
That’s all there is to it. Your Apple ID has successfully enrolled in the Apple Beta Software Program and will receive Public beta updates in the future.
How to join the Apple Developer Program
- Go to developer.apple.com/programs/enroll and click on the Start Your Enrollment button, then log in to your Apple ID.
You can use a different Apple ID to join, it doesn’t have to be the Apple ID you’re signed in with on your device.
- Enter your personal information, then click Continue.
- Select the entity type, I recommend selecting Individual / Sole Proprietor, then click Continue.
- Click the checkbox to agree to the terms and services, then click Continue.
- Click the Purchase button, then enter your payment information. Apple accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express.
After completing the payment, your account will be reviewed by Apple’s team, which may take 1-3 days to complete. You will receive an email notification if your account is ready.
That’s all there is to it. Your Apple ID has successfully enrolled in the Apple Developer Program and will receive Developer beta updates in the future.