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iOS 17.6, iPadOS 17.6, and macOS Sonoma 14.6 Beta 2 Released for Testing

Posted on by darion

Betas

The second beta versions of iOS 17.6, macOS Sonoma 14.6, and iPadOS 17.6 are available to users enrolled in beta testing programs for the current generation of Apple devices.

While many beta testers have likely already installed the iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia betas, there are undoubtedly developers who are also testing their software on the iOS 17.6, iPadOS 17.6, and macOS Sonoma 14.6 betas.

These system software versions are not expected to introduce any new features or changes. They are likely to be bug fixes and security updates.

How to Download and Install iOS 17.6 beta 2, iPadOS 17.6 beta 2, macOS Sonoma 14.6 beta 2

Assuming your Apple ID is registered with the beta testing programs, downloading and installing the beta is relatively straightforward. Keep in mind that if you’re currently running the iOS 18 beta or macOS Sequoia beta, you won’t be able to get these beta updates without first downgrading.

Installing iOS and iPadOS 17.6 beta:

  1. Go to the Settings app, then select “General”
  2. Select “Software Update,” then tap to install the iOS/iPadOS 17.6 beta

Installing macOS Sonoma 14.6 beta:

  1. Go to the  Apple menu, then select “System Preferences”
  2. Go to the “General” section, then to the “Software Update” section and install macOS Sonoma 14.6 beta 2 when prompted

When will the final versions of iOS 17.6, iPadOS 17.6, and macOS Sonoma 14.6 be available to everyone?

Apple typically releases several beta versions of software before releasing a final version to the general public. This suggests that the final versions of iOS 17.6, iPadOS 17.6, and macOS Sonoma 14.6 will arrive in a few weeks at the earliest, and could arrive later in July or August. This is speculation based on the typical beta cycle, and of course these updates could be released sooner or later.

I am a regular user, not a developer or beta tester. What is the latest system software for me?

For users who are not beta testers or developers, it is important to use the latest versions of stable system software.

Currently, Mac users will find macOS Sonoma 14.5, while iPhone and iPad users will find iOS 17.5.1 and iPadOS 17.5.1. These are the latest stable versions of the system software available.