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Apple drops first developer beta of tvOS 17.4 for testing

After the release of tvOS 17.3 to the public, Apple has moved to provide developers the first beta of tvOS 17.4.

Developers taking part in the test program can access the latest build by visiting the Apple Developer Center, or by updating any Apple TV set-top boxes that are already running the beta. Public beta versions usually surface a short time after the developer counterparts, and the public can sign up to test them via the Apple Beta Software Program when they become available.

The new tvOS 17.4 developer beta takes place after the release of tvOS 17.3 on January 22. The release candidate for tvOS 17.3 appeared on January 17.

The first beta build is number 21L5195h.

At this time, it is unclear what, if any, new features will be added to tvOS 17.4. Given that updates tend to involve performance improvements and bug fixes rather than features, it's likely that the release will be in a similar vein.

AppleInsider and Apple strongly advise users don't install beta operating systems, or beta software in general, on to "mission-critical" or primary devices, as there is the 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].