You may test beta versions of iOS 16 and iPadOS 16 today if you’re interested in trying out the new features and enhancements. Continue reading to find out how to get it and install it on your device.
Apple is releasing numerous new features and enhancements with iOS 16 and iPadOS 16, including a redesigned Lock Screen, Message editing and undoing tools, new SharePlay features, an overhauled multitasking system for the iPad, and much more.
Apple made developer betas accessible for testing on iPhone and iPad as soon as iOS 16 and iPadOS 16 were launched.
Because beta is by definition pre-release software, it is highly suggested that you install it on a second device. Beta software’s reliability cannot be guaranteed, since it frequently contains problems and issues that have yet to be resolved, therefore using it on a daily basis is not recommended.
Device Compatibility for iOS 16/iPadOS 16
Apple released a list of supported devices that are compatible with iOS 16. This list includes the following iPhone models.
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone X
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
The iPadOS 16 is also compatible with a wide range of older devices. These devices are:
- All iPad Pros models included
- iPad Air (3rd generation)
- iPad mini 5
- iPad (5th generation)
- iPad (6th generation)
- iPad (7th generation)
First, make a backup of your iPhone or iPad.
It shouldn’t take more than an hour to install iOS 16 or iPadOS 16 beta, but make a backup of your device’s data and settings beforehand. In macOS Catalina, the following step-by-step instructions will show you how to back up your iPhone.
- Using the box included cable, connect your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch to your Mac.
- Click the Finder icon on the Dock to open a Finder window.
- In the sidebar, click the name of your iOS device.
- In the Finder box, click Trust if this is your first time connecting your device to your Mac.
- When prompted, tap Trust on your smartphone, then confirm with your passcode.
- Click the circle next to Back up all of the data on your [iPhone/iPad/iPod touch] to this Mac on the General page.
- Click Back up Now at the bottom of the General page if you don’t wish to generate an encrypted backup or if you’ve already done so.
When the backup is complete, go to the General tab, immediately above the Manage Backups button, to see the date and time of the last backup.
How to install iOS 16 and iPadOS 16 Developer Betas
You’ll need a developer account, which is a paid membership, to download and install the iOS 16 developer beta. If you don’t already have one, you can create one here.
- Go to Apple’s Developer Program enrollment website on your iPhone or iPad.
- Sign in by tapping the two-line symbol in the top-left corner of the screen and selecting Account.
- Select Downloads from the two-line symbol after you’ve logged in.
- Under iOS 16 beta or iPadOS 16 beta, swipe down and hit Install Profile.
- Select Downloads from the two-line symbol once you’ve logged in.
- Under iOS 16 beta or iPadOS 16 beta, swipe down and hit Install Profile.
- Select Downloads from the two-line symbol once you’ve logged in.
- Type your passcode in the box provided.
- Click on the Install in the top-right corner by agreeing to the consent text and then install again when prompted.
- In the top-left corner of the screen, press Done, then General.
- Select Software Update from the menu.
- Select Download and Install from the drop-down menu.
- Select Install Now.
You’ll have to wait a bit for the update to download because it’s roughly 5GB in size, but once it does, your device will restart and immediately install iOS 16 or iPadOS 16. If you’re having trouble installing the iOS 16 or iPadOS 16 Public Beta, clearing any previous profiles on your device can help. These may be found under General -> Profile in the Settings app.