The pace of mobile operating system updates has always been swift, especially for newer devices, where receiving several different versions in a short period is quite common.
However, iPhones operate a bit differently. Updates are generally consistent across the board, with a rapid pace and wide distribution.
Take iOS 17, for example. It's now progressed to iOS 17.5 Beta 2, introducing numerous updates. For Apple enthusiasts, the desire to update remains high.
After all, as long as you're using a device compatible with iOS 17, you'll receive this version's push notification. Yet, I advise against rushing to update. It's better to first examine the changes and feedback before making a decision.
It's reported that in iOS 17.5 Beta2, Apple has introduced a feature for developers to directly offer app downloads through their websites. This means eligible developers can distribute app installation packages on their official websites for users to download and install directly.
Compared to downloading from the App Store, this method eliminates the cumbersome process of review and approval, making app distribution more efficient and flexible.
However, the introduction of this feature is not without hurdles. Apple has set a series of strict requirements for developers who want to offer app downloads through their websites.
For ordinary developers, it may be challenging to meet these requirements, possibly as a strategy to ensure security.
For instance, developers need to be members of the Apple Developer Program for at least two consecutive years, and in the past year, their app must have been installed over 1 million times in the European Union region.
Additionally, developers must undergo Apple's certification process and publish a transparent data collection policy to safeguard user privacy and data security.
Only developers who meet these criteria will be provided with the corresponding API interfaces by Apple to help them enable app downloads via their websites.
It's worth noting that developers who have had over 1 million app installations annually in the past 12 months are required to pay a core technology fee of 0.5 euros (approximately 3.8 RMB).
For domestic Apple enthusiasts, understanding these aspects shouldn't be necessary because side-loading app store functionality simply isn't supported domestically.
The perception among many Apple fans after updating to iOS 17.5 Beta 2 isn't particularly strong; some users have mentioned that it did indeed fix some issues.
For example, in the official version of iOS 17.4.1, some users experienced random delays when opening apps or typing, which seem to have disappeared after updating to Beta 2.
Some Apple fans have also noted that after the update, there isn't much increase in device heat, and the performance remains smooth. However, this feedback may vary depending on the device model; for instance, users with an iPhone 15 Pro report good performance, but it's unclear for older models.
Different models indeed offer varied update experiences, but overall, stability has significantly improved since the initial release of iOS 17.
Regarding signal, some users report that it remains relatively consistent compared to previous versions, yet it fluctuates unpredictably in the same location.
Addressing signal issues through system optimization seems nearly impossible, indicating a need to await further developments.
As for other issues, the probability of fixes seems low, particularly concerning the unresolved bug related to rejected AirDrop requests.
The author suggests that for Apple fans who have already upgraded to iOS 17, it's advisable to switch to the official version for the best upgrading experience, rather than sticking with the beta version.
On one hand, navigating through the current beta version poses certain hurdles, making it quite challenging and cumbersome to tinker with successfully in a short span of time.
On the other hand, beta versions are just for testing purposes, and subsequent updates will eventually lead to the release candidate (RC) version or the official version for long-term usage.
Therefore, it's better to wait for the official release of iOS 17.5 before updating, as it would provide users with better stability and a more impressive user experience.
The recently introduced web-to-app download feature in iOS 17.5 Beta2 brings more convenience and options for both developers and users.
However, Chinese Apple enthusiasts are unable to experience these new features. So, the question is, have you all updated and tried it out? Let's discuss the feedback on the update together.
