The iOS 17.6 Developer Beta 2 update was released by Apple to developers and beta testers on Monday. It builds on the first developer beta released last week with iOS 18 Developer Beta 2. Although there aren’t many new features, the update is expected to improve overall performance and improve stability. This is expected to be the last major update for iOS 17, as iOS 18 was announced at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024 on June 10 and is expected to arrive later this year.
iOS 17.6 developer beta 2
Apple introduced a new Catch Up feature to the Apple TV app in the latest iOS 17.6 beta (via 9to5Mac). This allows users to watch highlights and key moments from their favorite sports games, even if they weren’t able to see them in the first place. Instead of watching the entire game from the beginning, you can jump straight into action scenarios.
The feature was first introduced in June as part of the MLS Season Pass and is now coming to the Apple TV app with the iOS 17.6 Developer Beta 2 update. Beta testers can try out this feature before it is released to all users in the stable channel.
In addition to this feature, several issues have been fixed. According to Apple’s release notes, an issue that caused playback issues with Bluetooth headphones in certain AVAudioSession configurations has been fixed.
Reinstalling the app from the marketplace will not disable the home icon. This update also fixes a notification error that occurs when an app installed from a marketplace with an expired license fails to launch.
Along with the iOS 17.6 developer beta update, Apple is releasing the second developer beta of iPadOS 17.6, watchOS 10.6, tvOS 17.6 and visionOS 1.3 to beta testers. Stable versions are expected to be made available to users in the coming weeks.
How to get updates
The iOS 17.6 Developer Beta 2 update can be downloaded by registering as a developer through the Apple Developer Program. Until last year, users had to pay an annual fee of $99 (around Rs. 8,000), but now the app is free for all users who sign in with their Apple ID.
Apple is running iOS 17 and iOS 18 at the same time, so users must choose which operating system they want to use when signing up for an Apple operating system beta.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
