Apple releases the third public beta for iOS 15.4, iPadOS 15.4, macOS 12.3

Apple has released the third public beta of iOS 15.4, iPadOS 15.4, and macOS 12.3 to members of its public software testing program.

The third public betas should be essentially the same as the third developer betas, which Apple seeded on Tuesday. The builds can be acquired from the Apple Beta Software Program web portal.

In the changes found for iOS 15.4 so far, Face ID has been updated to offer two versions to consumers. Acting as an alternative to the standard version of Face ID, the new version can be used when wearing a mask by the user, as a slightly less secure alternative to the regular version.

The update for iPadOS 15.4 and macOS 12.3 introduces support for Universal Control. The feature enables a Mac to controll other nearby iPads or Macs using a single mouse and keyboard.

Apple has included code for Tap to Pay on iPhone in the iOS beta. The feature is expected to launch in the spring with Stripe as an initial partner.

AppleInsider, and Apple itself, strongly recommend users don't install the betas on to "mission-critical" or primary devices, as there is the remote possibility of data loss or other issues. Instead, testers should install betas onto secondary or non-essential devices and ensure sufficient backups of important data before updating.