Apple releases iOS 18 public beta 1

iOS 18 beta 1 works on iPhone 15 Pro Max

Mahmoud Itani / Android Authority

In short

Apple has released the first public beta of iOS 18, allowing non-developers to more safely try out upcoming iPhone features.
Developer and public betas typically have the same build numbers and changelogs, but the release of the latter is delayed to ensure stability.
You can download and install the public beta on your compatible iPhone by following the steps at the bottom of this article.

Apple has been testing iOS 18 with registered developers for more than a month, allowing them to optimize iPhone apps ahead of the fall stable release. Now that the company has addressed many of iOS 18’s major bugs, it’s expanding the availability of pre-release builds to non-developers. Through the iOS 18 Public Beta Program, anyone with an eligible iPhone can try out upcoming features — while minimizing the risks involved.

The difference between public betas and developer betas

In the early stages of testing, Apple typically releases public betas a week after developer versions. This gives developers enough time to discover and report serious bugs attached to a particular build. In extreme cases, the tech lord releases modified versions for public testers.

Aside from the delayed release, the iOS 18 public betas are essentially identical to the developer versions. Both tend to have the same build numbers and features; so by opting for the public beta, you’re not missing out on any new iOS features.

How to Install iOS 18 Public Beta 1

It’s worth noting that iOS 18 public betas will still contain bugs, glitches, and inconsistencies. While they’re safer to install than developer betas, they’re ultimately unpredictable pre-release builds. If you don’t mind the risks involved, you can download and install iOS 18 public beta 1 on one of the latest iPhone models by following these steps:

Sign up for the Public Beta Program by logging in with your existing Apple account and accepting the terms.
Start Settings app on your iPhone.
Navigate to General > Software update > Beta Updates.
Choose iOS 18 Public Beta option.
Return to the previous settings page and wait for the update to appear.
Hit the Download and install button.
Connect your iPhone to a power source and wait for the beta to install.

Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our team at [email protected]. You can remain anonymous or get credit for the information, it’s your choice.