Home > iOS

How to Download iOS 17 Beta

The iOS 17 update will be a major new addition to Apple's software lineup
Last Updated on July 15, 2024
You can trust PC Guide: Our team of experts use a combination of independent consumer research, in-depth testing where appropriate - which will be flagged as such, and market analysis when recommending products, software and services. Find out how we test here.

As tech enthusiasts, we understand the excitement of experiencing the latest iOS features and capabilities firsthand. That’s why we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you download the iOS 17 Beta.

There are two ways to download the iOS 17 Beta, and we’ll walk you through both methods. But before that, let’s take a brief detour to explain how to register as a developer with Apple since the beta versions are typically accessible only to those enrolled in the Apple Developer Program.

Apple is renowned for its commitment to continuous innovation, and the iOS 17 Beta is a testament to this commitment. With each beta version, Apple brings a new set of improvements and enhancements to its operating system, designed to provide a superior user experience. However, to download the iOS 17 Beta, you need to be a registered developer with Apple.

Step

1

Enroll in the Apple Developer Program

Download the Apple Developer app from the App Store, then launch the app and go to Account to tap Enroll Now.

Step

2

Sign in

Sign in using your Apple ID credentials, and carefully read through the benefits and instructions provided. You will also need to enter your personal information and scan your ID to verify your identity.

Step

3

Choose entity

Once the information is successfully submitted, you will have to choose your entity (individual for most people) and agree to the program license agreement.

Step

4

Pay Apple Developer fee

Pay the Apple Developer membership fee, which is $99, via Apple Pay.

Step

5

iOS 17 Beta access

After you’ve successfully registered as a developer, you’ll be able to access the iOS 17 Beta. Stay tuned to delve into the detailed process of downloading the iOS 17 Beta. 

You’re one step away from exploring the exciting new features that iOS 17 has to offer.

Installing the iOS 17 Beta with an Over-The-Air Update

Step

1

Navigating to the Software Update Section

Start by accessing your iPhone or iPad, then proceed to Settings > General > Software Update. This will take you to the section where you can manage updates for your device’s operating system.

Step

2

Accessing the iOS 17 Developer Beta

From the Software Update section, go into Beta Updates and select the iOS 17 Developer Beta. This will allow you to view the beta version of the upcoming iOS update.

Step

3

Downloading and Installing the Update

Afterward, return to the previous screen and tap the Download and Install option under the new iOS 17 Developer Beta section. This will initiate the process of installing the iOS 17 developer beta on your device.

Step

4

Finalizing the Installation

To proceed, you’ll need to enter your passcode and agree to the terms and conditions. The installation process can take over 20 minutes, depending on the speed of your internet connection. Once your phone reboots, you should have access to the iOS 17 developer beta.

Downloading the iOS 17 Developer Beta Using Your Mac

Step

1

Accessing the Apple Developer Program Download Page

On your Mac, navigate to the Apple Developer Program download page. Locate the iOS 17 beta section, click on Download Restore Images, and download the iOS beta software to restore images specific to your device.

Step

2

Connecting Your Device to Your Computer

Next, connect your device to your computer. If prompted, enter your device passcode or select Trust This Computer. This establishes a secure connection between your device and the computer.

Step

3

Locating Your Device on Finder

Open Finder on your Mac and click on your device in the sidebar under the Locations section. This will bring up information about your connected device.

Step

4

Installing the iOS 17 Beta Software

Hold down the Option key, click Check for Update, and choose the iOS 17 beta software to restore an image that you downloaded from the Apple Developer page. This will commence the installation of the iOS 17 beta software on your device.

Step

5

Completing the Installation

Wait for a few minutes for the installation process to complete. Once your phone reboots, you should have access to the iOS 17 developer beta. 

Congratulations, you can now explore the exciting new features of iOS 17!

Through this guide, we’ve shown you two distinct methods to install the iOS 17 beta on your device—directly on your iPhone or iPad via an over-the-air update, or through your Mac. It’s important to remember that as a beta version, iOS 17 may still contain bugs and instabilities, so install it on a secondary device if possible.

While the process might seem somewhat technical, it’s a straightforward path to get a glimpse into what Apple has been crafting for its users. As you explore the new landscapes of iOS 17, remember to provide valuable feedback to Apple to help them polish and perfect the operating system for its official release.

Camilo is a contributor for PC Guide. He's been into tech since he was a teen, surfing through the web and local stores trying to find the cheapest way to play the latest Half-Life on his old Windows