The phrase refers to a pre-release version of Apple’s mobile operating system intended for wide-scale testing by the general public. Its purpose is to identify bugs and gather user feedback before the final, polished version is officially launched. For instance, developers and enthusiasts might install this version on their devices to preview forthcoming features and assess compatibility with their apps.
Such a program is crucial for ensuring a stable and user-friendly experience upon general release. By leveraging a large pool of testers, the software developer can uncover issues that might not be apparent during internal testing. Historically, these initiatives have significantly improved the quality and reliability of software releases across the industry. The information gathered contributes directly to refinement and optimization of the system’s functions before they are accessible to the majority of users.