How to Download iOS 17 Developer Beta Version on iPhone for Free
Apple recently announced iOS 17 at WWDC 2023 and has subsequently released the first developer beta version of iOS 17. For the first time, Apple is allowing anyone with a compatible phone to install the iOS 17 developer beta for free, typically a privilege reserved for those who pay $99 to officially download and install any Apple developer beta software.
iOS 17 introduces several new features for the Phone, FaceTime, and Messages applications. These include personalized contact posters, video messages, a more intelligent autocorrect, improved AirDrop options, and the Journal app.
However, it’s important to note that developer beta versions like iOS 17 are not intended for general use. They may contain unfinished features and issues that could hinder the usability of your iPhone. It’s recommended to install the beta on a spare iPhone that is new enough to work with the latest software (iPhone XS or later). If you decide to install it on your main iPhone, ensure you back up your current data before proceeding.
To download the iOS 17 developer beta, you must enroll in the Apple Developer Program. Previously, a full membership was required, costing $99 a year, but Apple is now offering a free membership option with limited tools and resources that allows anyone to download and install the iOS 17 developer beta for free.
The steps to enroll in the free Apple Developer Program are:
- Go to Apple’s Developer website, tap the three-dash menu in the top-right, and hit Account.
- Sign in with your existing Apple ID.
- Read through the Apple Developer Agreement, check the boxes at the bottom, and then hit Submit.
- After you have enrolled in the program, you can install iOS 17 with an over-the-air update on your iPhone.
In case you want to revert to iOS 16 after installing the beta, there are available steps to do so, but I was not able to gather those steps in time. I recommend looking for resources on how to downgrade from iOS 17 Beta to iOS 16, such as on websites like MacRumors.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that a more stable iOS 17 upgrade will be available next month via the Apple Beta Software program. Please be aware that installing a beta version of iOS can have risks, so proceed with caution.
Some new features in iOS 17 Developer Beta Version on iPhone
Redesigned Lock Screen
The new Lock Screen in iOS 17 is more customizable than ever before. You can change the background image, add widgets, and even change the font and color of the text. You can also create multiple Lock Screens and switch between them by swiping.
New Messages features
Messages has been updated with a number of new features, including the ability to search for messages, check in with friends, and send stickers. You can also now use the SharePlay feature to watch videos or listen to music with friends while you’re messaging them.
AirDrop and NameDrop
AirDrop is a great way to share files and photos with other people, and it’s even better in iOS 17 with the new NameDrop feature. With NameDrop, you can share contact information with someone by simply saying their name. AirDrop will automatically find the person’s device and send them your contact information.
All-new Journal app
The Journal app is a great way to keep track of your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In iOS 17, the Journal app has been redesigned with a new interface and new features. You can now create different types of entries, such as text, photos, and voice recordings. You can also add tags to your entries to make it easier to find them later.
StandBy Mode
StandBy is a new feature that helps to save battery life on your iPhone. When your iPhone is not in use, StandBy will temporarily disable certain features, such as location services and background app refresh. This can help to extend the battery life of your iPhone by up to 30%.
Improved privacy features
Apple has made a number of improvements to the privacy features in iOS 17. These improvements include a new privacy dashboard that gives you more control over your data and a new feature that allows you to hide your IP address from websites. The privacy dashboard is a new section in the Settings app that gives you a comprehensive overview of your privacy settings. You can see which apps have access to your data, and you can change your settings for each app. The new IP address hiding feature helps to protect your privacy by hiding your IP address from websites. This can help to prevent websites from tracking your online activity.
iOS 17 is a major update that brings a number of new features and improvements to the iPhone. If you have an iPhone that is compatible with iOS 17, I recommend that you download the update.
