Beta 2 of iOS 17.6, iPadOS 17.6, & macOS Sonoma 14.6 Released for Testing

The second beta versions of iOS 17.6, macOS Sonoma 14.6, and iPadOS 17.6 are available to users who are enrolled in beta testing programs for current generation system software of Apple devices.

While many beta testers have likely proceeded ahead with installing the iOS 18 beta, iPadOS 18 beta, and MacOS Sequoia beta, undoubtedly there are developers who are testing their software with betas of iOS 17.6, iPadOS 17.6, and macOS Sonoma 14.6 as well.

No major new features or changes are expected in these versions of system software, suggesting they are likely releases aimed at bug fixes and security updates.

How to Download & Install iOS 17.6 beta 2, iPadOS 17.6 beta 2, macOS Sonoma 14.6 beta 2

Assuming your Apple ID is enrolled in the beta testing programs, downloading and installing the betas is relatively simple. Be aware that if you’re currently running iOS 18 beta or macOS Sequoia beta, you will not be able to get these beta updates, without first downgrading anyway.

Installing iOS & iPadOS 17.6 beta:

1. Go to Settings app, then choose “General”
2. Select “Software Update”, and then tap to install the iOS/iPadOS 17.6 beta

Installing macOS Sonoma 14.6 beta:

1. Go to  Apple menu, and then choose ‘System Settings’
2. Go to “General”, and then to “Software Update”, and install macOS Sonoma 14.6 beta 2 when requested

When will the final versions of iOS 17.6, iPadOS 17.6, & macOS Sonoma 14.6 be available to everyone?

Apple usually goes through several releases of beta software before issuing a final version to the general public. This suggests that final versions of iOS 17.6, iPadOS 17.6, and macOS Sonoma 14.6 are several weeks out at the soonest, and may arrive later in July or in August. This is speculation based upon the typical beta cycle, and of course these updates may be released sooner, or later.

I’m a regular user and not a developer or beta tester, what’s the latest system software for me?

For users who are not beta testers or developers, running the latest versions of stable system software is important.

Currently, Mac users will find macOS Sonoma 14.5 available, while iPhone and iPad users will find iOS 17.5.1 and iPadOS 17.5.1 available. These are the most recently available stable versions of system software.