Apple Introduces iOS 17 Beta 3 Update Empowering Developers with Enhanced Features

Apple is presently in the third round of developer betas, and on Tuesday, it issued a new version of iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 for testing.

Developers in the beta program may get the most recent builds by visiting the Apple Developer Centre or updating their devices already running the beta versions. The general public can also access the developer beta through a free tier of the program. However, it is usually encouraged to wait for appropriate public versions to be made available through the Apple Beta Software Programme. 

The third betas were first made available on July 5. The first batch was given on June 5, following the WWDC presentation.

The third beta update package, build number 21A5277j, replaces the previous third, build number 21A5277h.

The long list of improvements is highlighted by communication features, such as new contact posters that take over the display when a call comes in. Live Voicemail transcribes voicemails in real time, enabling the user to choose whether or not to answer. In contrast, Facetime conversations now include leaving a video message if the receiver is unavailable.

NameDrop is a new AirDrop function allowing users to exchange contact information by putting their iPhones together. AirDrop and Shareplay through NFC touch were also included, as were better-supporting hotel TVs for AirPlay and background AirDrop over the Internet if the local connection is lost.

The update also includes password and passkey sharing with groups, as well as sharing AirTag with multiple users. A CarPlay SharePlay experience is also available for passengers in a driver's contacts.

Apple Music Crossfade compatibility, Apple Music Sing on Apple TV with Continuity Camera support, Apple Music Radio episodes on Apple Podcasts, exercise routes in Apple Fitness+, and daily crosswords for Apple News+ members are also included.

iPadOS 17 adds iPhone Lock Screen customization, Home Screen widgets, the health app, a Screen Time eye distance feature, a more flexible Stage Manager, external webcam compatibility, and Freeform upgrades.

The third beta of iOS 17 introduced full crediting in Apple Music, a redesigned home splash screen, reactive Home Screen widgets, Weather UI modifications, and a new modal displayed when recovering photographs or multiple images in the photographs app.

AppleInsider and Apple highly advise customers not to install beta OS systems or other beta software on "mission-critical" or primary devices, as data loss is a tiny danger. Instead, testers should use secondary or non-essential devices and always maintain enough backups of their critical data.