The initial release of iOS software undergoes staged testing before a general release. These phases typically involve a developer-focused beta and a subsequent public beta. The former is intended for software developers to test application compatibility and identify bugs early in the development cycle. The latter allows a broader audience of non-developers to preview the software and provide feedback, further refining the system before its widespread availability.
The staged rollout of beta versions helps ensure greater stability and fewer critical issues upon official release. The developer beta provides a focused environment for technical assessment, while the public beta introduces a diverse range of user behaviors and hardware configurations, uncovering a wider spectrum of potential problems. This process allows Apple to address potential problems relating to battery life, app compatibility, system stability, and security vulnerabilities.