In an unprecedented move, it seems that Apple’s allowed anyone with an Apple ID to get access to developer beta releases, even if they are not paying for Apple’s Developer Program. This includes iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, macOS Sonoma betas, without the need to wait for the public betas expected to be released in July.
In previous years, Apple used to release the first batch of beta to paying developers only, which cost 99$/Year.
WARNING
Apple does not recommend installing any Beta version on primary iPhones, MacBooks, iPads, etc. Beta softwares are usually full of bugs and can render some apps useless as well. Backup your non beta device before updating, and / or only install on secondary devices.
How to get a free developer account
If you just want a free Apple Developer account, you can get via the Apple Developer app in iOS:
- Download the Apple Developer App from the App Store.
- Open the app.
- Tap on Account.
- Tap on Sign In, and use your Apple ID to proceed.
Here’s how to see the beta releases on your iPhone (Applies as well to iPadOS 17, macOS Sonoma, and watchOS 10:
- Open the Settings app on iPhone.
- Tap the General tab in Settings.
- Tap the Software Update tab.
- Press the Beta Updates tab.
- Select the iOS 17 Developer Beta option in the list.
- Return to the Software Update page and install iOS 17 developer beta 1.
Check out what’s new in Apple’s new software release here.
