Apple has officially released the first public beta version of iOS 12 on Monday, giving non-developers the first opportunity to try out the new update.
As of the writing of this piece, the iOS 12 beta should be available to public beta testers. The first public beta should roughly correspond to the second developer beta, released last week.
iOS 12 itself is a major update to Apple’s mobile operating system. Although one of its primary updates is a bump to speed, reliability and performance across both new and old devices. But iOS 12 also introduces a handful of other significant features.
New Features in iOS 12
- Siri will be getting an upgrade with contextual reminders and a new Shortcuts app that will let users create complex Siri “processes” that combine multiple functions into one command.
- Screen Time will help users keep track of their smartphone usage — and even set limits on app usage across certain categories.
- ARKit 2 will add support for multi-user augmented reality experiences, as well as a new file format that will allow for easy sharing of AR assets.
- A new type of customizable Animoji-like characters called Memoji, which can be edited and tweaked to a user’s preferences and style.
Other notable features include new Animoji, new Do Not Disturb capabilities, Group FaceTime support for up to 32 users, and a new ARKit measuring app called Measure, among a slew of other additions.
How to Download the iOS 12 Beta
We don’t recommend downloading beta software on your primary device, since they can be buggy. In any case, be sure to fully backup any device to iTunes or iCloud before proceeding.
- The first public iOS 12 beta should be available as an over-the-air update to users who are part of Apple’s beta program — provided that the proper certificate is installed on a device.
- If you’re not signed up for the beta program, you can do so at Apple’s website. From there, just follow the instructions to get set up to test beta software.