Apple rolls out new update to third iOS 17, iPadOS 17 developer betas

Apple is still on the third round of developer betas, and on Tuesday, it doled out an update to that build of iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 for testing.

Developers who are part of the beta program can obtain the most recent builds by either accessing the Apple Developer Center or updating their devices that are already running the beta versions. Members of the public can also access the developer beta using a free tier of the program, however it is generally advised to wait for proper public versions to be offered via the Apple Beta Software Program.

The third betas were initially released on July 5. The first of this batch was distributed on June 5 after the WWDC keynote.

The third beta update package is build number 21A5277j, replacing the original third, 21A5277h.

Thelengthy list of updates are headlined by communication features, including new contact posters that take over the display when a call comes in. Live Voicemail transcribes voicemails in real time, allowing the user to decide if they want to answer, while Facetime calls will gain the option to leave a video message if the recipient is unavailable.

NameDrop is a new feature in AirDrop that allows users to exchange contact details by bringing iPhones near each other. AirDrop by NFC tap and Shareplay by NFC tap was also added, as well as AirPlay better-supporting hotel TVs, and a background AirDrop over the Internet if the local connection is lost.

Password and passkey sharing with groups, as well as sharing AirTag with multiple users also form part of the update. There's also a CarPlay SharePlay experience for passengers in a driver's contacts.

Crossfade support in Apple Music, Apple Music Sing on Apple TV with Continuity Camera support, Apple Music Radio shows on Apple Podcasts, workout routes in Apple Fitness+, and daily crosswords for Apple News+ subscribers also join the mix.

iPadOS 17 gains the Lock Screen customization from iPhone, widgets on the Home Screen, the Health app, a Screen Time eye distance feature, a more flexible Stage Manager, external webcam support, and Freeform updates.

The third beta of iOS 17 added full crediting in Apple Music, a new Home splash screen, reactive Home Screen widgets, Weather UI changes, and a new modal shown when you recover photos or multiple images in the Photos app.

AppleInsider and Apple strongly suggest users don't install beta operating systems or other beta software on "mission-critical" or primary devices, as there is the small chance of issues that could result in the loss of data. Testers should instead use secondary or non-essential hardware and ensure they have sufficient backups of their critical data at all times.

Find any changes in the new betas? Reach out to us on Twitter at @AppleInsider or @Andrew_OSU, or send Andrew an email at andrew@AppleInsider.com.