Apple issues release candidates for watchOS 9.6 & tvOS 16.6

Apple Watch Ultra

Apple has distributed release candidates of watchOS 9.6 and tvOS 16.6 for testing as the final release gets ever closer.

Developers enrolled in the beta program can pick up the newest versions via Apple Developer Center or update their device in Settings. Public beta participants can usually get the latest versions soon after the developer releases them through the Apple Beta Software Program.

The RC iteration of watchOS 9.6 is identified by build number 20U73, replacing the earlier build 20U5570a.

As for tvOS 16.6, the new build number is 20M73, which replaces the previous build, 20M5571a.

The betas have been largely considered a performance and bug fix release, especially since Apple is actively working on betas for its milestone operating system releases, due this fall.

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 [email protected].