Apple held its WWDC23 event on June 5, 2023, and announced several new software updates, including iPadOS 17. This new operating system for the iPad brings several new features and improvements, including a redesigned lock screen, interactive widgets, and new tools for working with PDFs and Notes. Apple also unveiled updates for other platforms, such as iOS 17 for iPhones, watchOS 10 for Apple Watches, and macOS 14 Sonoma for Macs, aiming to enhance its ecosystem across all devices.
This post is dedicated to providing you with an in-depth look into iPadOS 17. I’ll cover all the new features, improvements, and potential bugs, ensuring you have a comprehensive resource to stay updated. Whether you’re a long-time iPad user or new to the platform, keep this page handy for all the latest updates on iPadOS 17.
What is iPadOS 17?
iPadOS is the operating system for Apple’s iPad line. It is based on iOS but with additional features and functionality designed for the larger screen and touch inputs of the iPad. While iPadOS 17 is the latest version of iPadOS.
iPadOS 17 Beta 3 Update
Apple recently released the iPadOS 17 Beta 3 latest version was rolled out on the 5th of July, 2023. This release, recognized by its build number 21A5277h, indicates a significant update from the tech giant. The size of the update is quite substantial, with the download package weighing in at 732.6 MB.
| Build Name | iPadOS 17 Beta 3 |
| Build Number | 21A5277h |
| Release Date | 5th July 2023 |
| Size | 732.6 MB |
| Features | 1. New Apple Music UI and Add credits 2. Added Activity History for Control Homekit devices 3. UI and Significant changes in Recently Deleted Section in Photos App 4. Some minor changes in Mental Well-being |
iPadOS 17 Beta 2 Update
On June 22, 2023, Apple released the second beta version of iPadOS 17, specifically designed for developers. The latest build number of iPadOS 17 Beta 2 is 21A5268h. The download size for the developer beta 2 is approximately 1.15 gigabytes, providing developers with an opportunity to explore and test new features.
| Build Name | iPadOS 17 Beta 2 |
| Build Number | 21A5268h |
| Release Date | 22nd June 2023 |
| Size | 1.15 GB |
| Features | 1. Update Tonight a new software update UI 2. New Apple Music Widgets 3. New MicroLocation 4. Crossfade Duration Slider Selection (1s to 12s) |
iPadOS 17 Beta 1 Update
On June 5, 2023, Apple released the first beta version of iPadOS 17, with build number 21A5248v. This update generated a lot of excitement among tech enthusiasts all over the world. The first beta version is quite large at 5.56 GB.
iPadOS 17 Beta 1 brings a bunch of exciting new features that will greatly enhance the user experience. You’ll find improved interactive widgets, personalized lock screens, and the ability to set multiple timers, among other cool additions. These new features set the stage for the exciting future development of iPadOS.
| Build Name | iPadOS 17 Developer Beta |
| Build Number | 21A5248v |
| Release Date | 5th June 2023 |
| Size | 5.56 GB |
| Features | 1. Interactive widgets 2. Customizable lock screens 3. Widgets can be placed on the lock screen 4. Multiple timers 5. Health app is now on iPadOS 6. PDF support in the Notes app 7. Live Collaborate in the Notes app 8. Stage Manager improvements |
How to Download and Install iPadOS 17 Beta Update
Before you download and install the iPadOS 17 Developer Beta, there are several important steps you need to take:
- Back up your iPad: Always make sure you have a full backup of your iPad before installing a new operating system. This will protect your data in case something goes wrong during the installation process.
- Check device compatibility: Verify that your iPad is compatible with iPadOS 17.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to download and install the iPadOS 17 Beta:
- Download and install the Apple Developer App from the App Store on your iPad.
- Open the Apple Developer App and tap on the Account icon at the bottom.
- Tap on the Sign In option, then click on the Enroll Now option to register for the Apple Developer Program.
- Tap on Continue, fill out all your personal information (name, phone number, address), and pay the $99 annual fee.
- Once your account is active, go to your iPad’s Settings.
- Select General, then tap on Software Update.
- Tap on the option for beta updates and select iPadOS 17 Developer Beta.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install iPadOS 17 Beta.
Note: Beta versions of operating systems can be unstable and contain bugs. If your iPad is important to your daily activities, it might be best to wait for the final release of iPadOS 17.
iPadOS 17 Features
iPadOS 17 introduces many new features and improvements to improve the iPad user experience. Here are some major updates:
- Personalization of the Lock Screen
- Interactive Widgets
- Improved PDF Handling
- Enhanced iMessages
- FaceTime Updates
- Safari Updates
- Introduction of the Health App
- Stage Manager adds flexibility to the positioning and size of the windows.
- Freeform offers new drawing tools and the ability to guide collaborators around the board.
- Siri can now be activated by simply saying “Siri.”
iPadOS 17 Supported Devices
iPadOS 17 is compatible with the following iPad models:
- iPad (6th generation and later)
- iPad mini (5th generation and later)
- iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
- 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation and later)
- 10.5-inch iPad Pro
- 11-inch iPad Pro (1st generation and later)
Conclusion
Apple focused on personalization and security in the first iPadOS 17 Beta. This update includes several new features and improvements, such as interactive widgets, changes to iMessage, and the new Health app. While the developer beta is a very early stage of development, it is important to back up your device before installing it. I recommend waiting for the public beta or stable release of iPadOS 17 before installing it.
