Apple is on a roll as it announces the release of the first iOS 11.4 developer beta for iPads and iPhones. People can’t wait to get their hands on this version and are rushing to local stores that sell iPhones and iPads. The company has only released the iOS 11.3 recently and didn’t stop at that. The brand-new beta version of iOS 11.4 is made available on Apple’s Developer Center or over-the-air.
What’s New with iOS 11.4?
- AirPlay 2 and HomePod
AirPlay 2 features were removed from iOS 11.3, but they are back for testing in iOS 11.4. The beta version also suggests that the HomePod will receive stereo support as soon as the software update is ready. We can now use two HomePod speakers again in stereo configuration. However, the feature needs an unreleased version of HomePod to start testing. Testing AirPlay 2, on the other hand, requires Apple TV 4K with tvOS 11.4 developer or Apple TV 4 for public beta.
- Messages in iCloud
Users have long been waiting for Messages in iCloud. However, like Airplay 2, Messages in iCloud was also removed from the final iOS 11.3 release. It is making a major comeback in the iOS 11.4 developer beta. Apple users from all over the globe are ecstatic about this announcement and are hoping that Messages in iCloud goes through the final release.
- Schoolwork and ClassKit
The company also previewed the Schoolwork app and the ClassKit API recently in an education event. Schoolwork is designed for teachers to help them create assignments, distribute information, and keep track of the students’ academic progress. ClassKit is made for educational app developers. The software will help them assign activities and information, so teachers can utilize them with Schoolwork.
Apple knows that changes on class organization and administration must be mapped out before school starts. Considering Apple’s initiatives, we are anticipating the Schoolwork app and the ClassKit API to be part of the iOS 11.4.
When Will the iOS 11.4 Be Released?
The first beta was released on the 2nd of April. iOS point releases usually stay in beta around one to three months. You can check this site to see how many days previous versions stayed in beta. Following this timetable, we can expect to welcome iOS 11.4 in May or June.
How Can I Get the iOS 11.4 Developer Beta?
You can check Apple’s Developer Center if you are a developer. If you’re just a loyal user who wants to check out the beta version, all you need to do is visit the site beta.apple.com on the device on which you want to use the beta version. You can enroll on the site and download a profile that you can use to download the beta releases.
Apple Developer’s program asks for paid membership, but the public beta program is free for participants. The crowd still needs to bear in mind that using beta software presents stability risks. Apple also offers iOS, tvOS, and macOS public beta versions.
Apple users around the world are rejoicing with this news. We are expecting the millions of loyal Apple users to patronize this update, and until the release of the final version, we will be waiting.
