Apple seeds first iOS 17.1, iPadOS 17.1 developer betas

Developers taking part in the testing program can obtain the latest builds by visiting the Apple Developer Center or updating their iPhone or iPad through the Settings app. Public beta versions generally appear a short time after the developer versions, and participants can sign up through the Apple Beta Software Program website.

Apple's last builds of iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 were the release candidates, which Apple brought out on September 12.

The latest build is number 21B5045h.

At this early stage, it is unclear exactly what is new in the betas, but it is likely to include multiple performance improvements, bug fixes, and potentially features that were intended for the first release but weren't quite ready in time.

AppleInsider and Apple strongly suggest users don't install test operating systems or other beta or RC 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 builds? Reach out to us on Twitter at @AppleInsider or @Andrew_OSU, or send Andrew an email at andrew@AppleInsider.com.