At WWDC 2023, Apple just announced the main new features of its operating systems for iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac and more – but only betas are available for developers right now. Usually, you would have to pay to get access. But to test the developer beta of iOS 17, watchOS 10, or macOS Sonoma without paying for Apple’s developer program just use your Apple ID: it’s all free.
Apple’s developer betas are free
As stated on the Apple developer website, all you need is your Apple ID to test these new betas. Both MacRumors and The Verge have already tested it.
To check if you can install the developer betas, just check the software update section on your device. Go up Settingsthen select General > Software Update > Beta Updates > iOS 17 Developer Beta. From there you can download and install the beta. As you explore your Apple Watch, MacBook Air, and Apple TV settings, you’ll find options to install the latest developer betas on those devices as well.
However, installing developer betas isn’t always a good idea. These versions are very recent which means you may encounter problems like broken apps, serious bugs, or abnormally fast battery drain.
You don’t want to use them on a device you use every day. For most people who want to try out what’s new, it’s best to wait for the release of the public betas, which Apple announced for July.
But it remains interesting that Apple has decided for the first time to expand the platform of developers who test these innovations, making the download free.