In addition to the potential for data loss, you'll also need an iPadOS 16 backup in case you want to go back.

You can find the instructions on how to do this in our article on how to back up an iPad.

Remember that these betas are for developers to use on devices dedicated to testing their apps, so Apple doesn't expect that you'll be using it on a device that has anything important on it. This is a good idea for any major iPadOS update, but it's essential in the case of an early developer beta. If you plan to install iPadOS 17 on your primary device, then you'll definitely want to make sure you have a good backup before you begin. Jesse Hollington / Digital Trends Back up your iPad Nevertheless, if you have a spare iPad lying around that's compatible with iPadOS 17, or you're willing to throw caution to the wind and install it on your main iPad, here's how to go about it. Also, keep in mind that Apple's warranty doesn't cover devices running betas, so if you do have a problem with your iPad, you'll have to wipe it and revert back to iPadOS 16 before you can bring it in for service. Even though Apple is no longer charging for access, it still makes it clear that these betas are intended for “devices dedicated for iPadOS 17 beta software development.” They shouldn't be installed on your primary device unless you're willing to live with potential problems. While paid members of the Apple Developer Program still get a few other perks, developer betas are no longer restricted to that tier - now anybody can register their Apple ID for a free developer account to get access to them.Ī word of caution, though: These are still early developer betas that could be filled with all sorts of bugs. Thankfully, that's changed with this year's iPadOS 17 beta cycle. Although Apple rolled out a free public beta program a few years ago, public betas for major iPadOS releases don't typically arrive before July, so those who wanted free access to the beta were left waiting. In the past, getting legitimate access to Apple's early developer betas required you to be a member of the $99 per year Apple Developer Program. There's some good news this year for those who are eager to check out iPadOS 17, as Apple is making its developer betas freely available to anyone who wants them. A compatible iPad running iPadOS 16.5 or later

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