Apple releases iOS 7 beta 2 to developers with iPad support, new Siri voices

Apple on Monday released the second beta of iOS 7 for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, arriving two weeks after the new mobile operating system was unveiled and featuring newly updated voices for Siri.

Developers testing the software can now download iOS 7 beta 2 through Software Update in the iPhone's native Settings application. Apple has said the update contains bug fixes and improvements.

Apple has also warned users that the second beta "should only be deployed on devices dedicated for iOS 7 beta software development." The prerelease software is not intended for use among the general public.

While the first iOS 7 beta was limited to iPhone and iPod touch, the new second beta also adds support for the full-size iPad and iPad mini. While iPhone and iPod touch users running beta 1 can download through Software Update, iPad users will need to upgrade from iOS 6 through iTunes on a Mac or PC.

Apple's new voices for its Siri personal assistant are included in the second beta of iOS 7. They include a more natural sounding female voice, and an entirely new male voice option for U.S. users. Apple offered a sneak peek at the new voices weeks ago, but they were not included in the first beta.

Also found in iOS 7 beta 2 is the return of the built-in Voice Memos application. Like other native iOS apps, it has been redesigned for the forthcoming software update.

In the release notes that accompanied Monday's release, Apple details a number of known issues that remain with the pre-release software.

Apple gave developers the first beta of iOS 7 two weeks ago at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference. That was also the first time the world, outside of Apple's team, got to see a major design overhaul for the platform.

For an in-depth look at iOS 7, see AppleInsider's ongoing Inside iOS 7 series.