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5 Reasons to Skip iOS 7 Beta

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While the iOS 7 release date is now slated for the fall, owners of the iPhone (and soon the iPad and iPod touch) can get their hands on the software early through an iOS 7 beta. However, while getting hands-on a new version of iOS early might sound like a great idea, there are actually some very good reasons to skip the iOS 7 beta.

As expected, Apple debuted its latest version of iOS, iOS 7, on stage at WWDC 2013, the company’s annual developer conference. Like previous iOS updates, the software will be bringing a number of new features to iPhone, iPad and iPod touch owners later in the year. Unlike previous updates, iOS 7 features significant changes to both the look of the user interface and the core applications that come stock with Apple’s mobile software.

Read: How to Get iOS 7 Beta Right Now.

Siri can do much more in iOS 7.

The iOS 7 may not be worth it for some iPhone owners.

For many, iOS 7 represents an exciting piece of software. Unfortunately for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad owners though, that excitement was diminished a bit by the fact that Apple won’t be releasing the software until sometime this fall, possibly in September alongside the iPhone 5S. For those that don’t wish to wait though, there is a way of getting the iOS 7 beta right now.

While it’s currently only available to owners of the iPhone, iOS 7 is available in beta form right now to those that pay the $99 annual fee for entry into Apple’s developer program. That membership allows owners to download and install iOS 7 beta, the first beta in a series of betas that are likely to land before the software’s release.

Those who aren’t a part of the developer program can also go through third-parties to get access to the iOS 7 beta. For as little as under $10, those looking for early iOS 7 access get can that access.

iPhone, iPad and iPod touch owners who are thinking about taking the plunge with iOS 7 beta should know that it’s not all fun and games and that it’s nothing like downloading and installing a regular old Apple update.

That said, here are five reasons to skip the iOS 7 beta.

Bugs

One of the first things that iDevice owners must remember before installing the iOS 7 beta is that this is not a final version of iOS 7, thus the name, iOS 7 beta. What this means is that the software is still being test for final release and will likely come with bugs that Apple, and those using the beta, will stumble across as time marches forward.

It's not a matter of if, it's a matter of how many bugs with iOS 7 beta.

It’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of how many bugs with iOS 7 beta.

While final versions of iOS software generally have bugs as well, they will more than likely be plentiful in the beta version of the software, particularly in the early versions. Users of several iOS 6 betas complained about non-working Wi-Fi, amongst other issues.

This is something that device owners need to consider, especially when the earliest that Apple will release the update is in September. That means several months of potential headaches.

Apps Aren’t Guaranteed to Work

Another major headache that iOS 7 users could run into are incompatible or unstable applications. In past iOS betas, applications have simply crashed when started up and others seemingly only work some of the time.

Some users have reported increasingly good functionality with Apple’s beta software, particularly with iOS 6, but there is a good chance that with a major software overhaul like iOS 7, some applications will not be agreeable.

Non-Functioning iPhone

iphone-4s-review-1-625x416

iPhones could be rendered useless, albeit temporarily, by the iOS 7 beta.

Forgetful types probably want to skip the iOS 7 beta. This is due to the fact that Apple’s beta software expires after a certain amount of time and after it does expire, devices that aren’t updated to the latest version will become temporarily bricked, until they can connect to a computer and update to the current beta.

In some cases, that could mean weeks without access to a phone or tablet, something that obviously isn’t going to be agreeable for many owners of Apple’s devices. Additionally, once the software does become available, owners will have to download and restore their iPhone which is an extremely slow process.

In particular, those who are dependent upon one smartphone or one tablet should think twice about downloading or installing the iOS 7 beta, especially if they plan to travel significantly while using the iOS 7 beta.

Downgrading Is an Issue

Let’s say an iPhone user installs the iOS 7 beta, finds that it’s too buggy and wants to downgrade back to the previous version of iOS. In the past, this has been possible, even though Apple claims that it’s not, though it’s not a fun process. Instead, it’s a headache filled process that will likely confuse and frustrate novices.

Reports of the inability to downgrade iOS 7 are false. There is a way to downgrade from iOS 7 beta after installing it but again, for those that have not been through the process, it’s not going to be an easy process and it’s one that could definitely eat up quite a bit of time. Users will need to weigh whether the potential headaches are worth the installation.

Likely Isn’t the Full iOS 7 Update

The iOS 7 beta 1 likely doesn't possess all of the features of iOS 7.

The iOS 7 beta 1 likely doesn’t possess all of the features of iOS 7.

While Apple hasn’t confirmed it just yet, the iOS 7 beta likely isn’t the full version of the software. Indeed, there will be plenty to toy around with in the days leading up to its official release but iOS 7 beta likely only features some of what the finalized software will have to offer.

For instance, with iOS 5, Siri wasn’t available to developers within the iOS 5 betas. There are also smaller features that Apple keeps out of the hands of developers so as to keep the operating system fresh and new when it arrives in the months after its first official unveiling.

So if a piece of software, that isn’t fully featured, doesn’t sound like it will be worth dealing with for the next few months, it’s probably worth waiting with iOS 6 instead of installing the iOS 7 beta on the iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.

55 Comments

55 Comments

  1. Q

    06/10/2013 at 8:26 pm

    Wise words! Be alot of fan boys with bricked iPhones.

  2. Abishek Gopal

    06/10/2013 at 8:57 pm

    I am a Fan boy… an I installed iOS 7 and just downgraded it to iOS 6.1.3… using dfu mode… it was simple :)

    • Wesley Wilkerson

      06/10/2013 at 9:42 pm

      what device?

      • Mile.1337

        07/23/2013 at 11:15 am

        Its simple just download proper IPSW and SHIFT+Restire iTunes. Tested on iPhone 5 multiple times.. Even iTunes restored normal. For more questions ask :D

    • Jorge

      06/10/2013 at 10:08 pm

      how did you downgrade?! Pleaseeeeee!

      • shawn

        06/11/2013 at 2:08 am

        1. Enter DFU mode (hold home button & sleep button for 10sec then release sleep button and continue holding home button till connect to… message displays)

        2. Restore w/iTunes using the 6.1.3/6.1.4 ipw

        3. Restore backup from “your name’s iphone”

        • RyanK

          06/11/2013 at 5:34 am

          I can also confirm this. Tried it without any issues. If I remember correctly, it even said on the Apple Developer beta download site that this is what they recommended for rolling back. Just be sure to backup before upgrading to the beta so you can easily get back to where you were before. iTunes is the fastest method.

        • machatuanis

          06/11/2013 at 11:29 am

          Will you loose text messages if you update and or have to downgrade?

          • Linda

            06/11/2013 at 10:07 pm

            Nope. As long as you back up everything you should be ok. I lost a few apps, but those were easy to replace.

    • ariel

      06/10/2013 at 10:13 pm

      how did u restore because when I tried to it says the firmware is not supported

  3. ariel

    06/10/2013 at 10:41 pm

    nvm I found out how put ur iphone or ipod into dfu mode then just click restore In iTunes then it will start restoring with no problem

    • Ben

      06/10/2013 at 11:41 pm

      Why did you need to downgrade? Were there some issues?

  4. Mike Castillo

    06/11/2013 at 12:26 am

    Selling UDID activations for $5!

    Email your UDID to me at [email protected]

    GET IOS 7 BETA 1 NOW!

    Registered INSTANTLY

    PayPal is accepted only!

  5. BobbyDigital

    06/11/2013 at 1:12 am

    Dumbass u dont need UDID for this version. Stop trying to scam people.

    • Mike Castillo

      06/11/2013 at 1:15 am

      Ain’t even a scam lmao. So, if you don’t know what you’re saying, no need to say it at all. Thanks :)

      • BobbyDigital

        06/11/2013 at 2:05 am

        Again. There is no UDID activation required. You can Download the iOS7 Beta from the web.

    • shawn

      06/11/2013 at 2:13 am

      Apparently you’re the “Dumbass”. Read Up Bobby
      SOURCE: https://www.gottabemobile.com/2013/06/10/how-to-get-ios-7-beta-now/

      How to Install the iOS 7 Beta on the iPhone 5
      Installing the iOS 7 beta on the iPhone 5 and iPhone 4S is pretty easy with direction. Make sure you receive confirmation that the UDID is registered otherwise this will fail. This could take some time, especially if you choose to restore from backup, so budget accordingly.

      1. Register the device UDID with IMZDL

      2. Make sure you are on the latest version of iTunes.

      3. Connect the iPhone to the computer and perform a backup with iTunes.

      4. Download the iOS 7 Beta for your iPhone model. The files will show up on IMZDL today, but could take time.

      6. Open iTunes and upgrade to the iOS 7 Beta by choosing Restore.

      Be sure to hold alt/option on Mac when you click Restore.
      On Windows, hold Shift when you click Restore.
      7. Find the .ipsw file you downloaded and select it.

      8. Complete the installation and then restore from backup if you desire.

      This will install the iOS 7 beta on the iPhone 5, iPhone 4S or iPhone 4. An iOS 7 beta for iPad and iPAd mini will come later.

      • Stepan

        06/12/2013 at 4:08 am

        Or you can do the same except with check for update button and then you don’t need to activate the phone. But when you restore, you need to activate it. I tried both ways.

      • Saulo Miraya

        06/12/2013 at 5:48 pm

        You DO NOT need to register for a developer account NOR pay for UDID registrations. IOS7 can be installed on the iPhone by using upgrade instead of restore. Download the ipsw, open Itunes and hold shift while clicking upgrade and choose the file. In OS X you hold the option key down while clicking upgrade. When the phone is upgraded enjoy your new OS.

    • Azzab

      06/12/2013 at 3:01 pm

      You do if in the UK, I got mine registered and now it works fine, but I rolled back to 6.1.3 on iPhone 4 as an app I use all the time was giving me jip!

  6. Lacher

    06/11/2013 at 1:38 am

    So I updated to iOS 7 with a developer account and all, but there is one MAJOR flaw in the new OS! On apps such as eBay and snapchat, the springboard becomes STUCK when trying to open the app!!! The only way that I have been able to unfreeze it is going through iTunes and updating to iOS 7 all over again!!! IF ANYONE KNOWS WHY THIS IS HAPPENING OR ANOTHER WORKAROUND PLEASE REPLY TO THIS COMMENT! Thank you!!!

    • Someone900

      06/11/2013 at 2:32 am

      There is no workaround. Didn’t you read the article? “iOS 7 users could run into incompatible or unstable applications”. This is the BETA version not the final one so yes of course there’re going to be some bugs.

    • Saulo Miraya

      06/12/2013 at 5:51 pm

      You do not need to reinstall the OS to get out of the springboard lockup. I am able to get out of it by hitting the home button several times. It eventually kicks you out to your lock screen.

    • Tara

      06/22/2013 at 10:11 am

      I was able to unfreeze my Iphone-5 (with ebay app) by resetting the phone (holding power and home button together until apple logo shows on screen and then release both buttons.

  7. Someone900

    06/11/2013 at 2:36 am

    Those who have installed the Beta version, are the basics such as making calls, sending texts, email, web-browsing, etc. work with no issues? I don’t use third-party apps on my iPhone except for WhatsApp and Tapatalk.

    Is there a list that shows the apps that don’t seem to work well with the Beta version.

    • Kenmasco

      06/11/2013 at 5:18 am

      Only thing I’ve noticed in general use is that the proximity sensor doesn’t seem to work. Whatsapp is fine, and core functionality is all there

    • Andrew Beard

      06/17/2013 at 10:26 am

      Eh, not really. I repeatedly got delivered statuses for iMessages sent to my wife that she never received. Using the camera caused an app crash about a third of the time. Safari crashed every once and a while. I would advising waiting if you’re not doing application testing.

  8. Duncan Barry

    06/11/2013 at 2:49 am

    General query here,

    If i register for the developer program and pay the fee, does it mean i can download a legit version of ios 7 and would i therefore be able to restore and revert to an older version of ios when i please? also would i be able to get and install the final version of iOS when it comes out without any problems?

    many thanks

    • Barbie Girl

      06/11/2013 at 2:51 am

      Don’t forget you have to be accepted to the developers program.. I got denied!

  9. BenCollins

    06/11/2013 at 2:54 am

    Hi!

    Im debating signing up as an Apple developer so i can use the new ios, i wouldnt say im the most knowledgable guy in the world but im pretty savvy when it comes to technology so if i come across any problems im sure i could get round them(ish!)

    Would you reccomend to download it?

    Many thanks for your help guys!

    • RyanK

      06/11/2013 at 5:37 am

      I guess that’s really up to you. It’s fully functional and usable, although a bit buggy at times and some of the animations aren’t all that smooth. If you want a fast and reliable OS you may want to stick with iOS 6 for now, but if you don’t mind dealing with the bugs and performance then iOS 7 beta is interesting.

  10. LadyX

    06/11/2013 at 3:38 am

    “Apple’s beta software expires after a certain amount of time and after it does expire, devices that aren’t updated to the latest version will become temporarily bricked, until they can connect to a computer and update to the current beta.”

    **** How do I know if there’s an update??

  11. Emil

    06/11/2013 at 5:54 am

    No such thing as a bricked phone. Grow up!
    You can always reinstall or downgrade, muppet!

  12. Sergej Kravcenko

    06/11/2013 at 6:38 am

    Before writing this article make sure you do test things yourself first, otherwise your article just becomes a plot of garbage and that’s it.

  13. Alex Nathan Gerstein

    06/11/2013 at 12:02 pm

    Siri wasn’t on ios5 beta because the iphone 4s was not released yet.

  14. Cody

    06/11/2013 at 3:48 pm

    Don’t miss out on this…

    Selling UDID Activations for $5 ONLY!

    Email me at [email protected]

    FAST AND EASY HAVE IOS 7 RUNNING
    IN NO TIME!

    Only accepting PayPal!

  15. Alex Blaha

    06/11/2013 at 6:15 pm

    I have a iPhone 4S and installed iOS 7.. It is extremely buggy, I can’t even manage to open safari for more then 5 seconds. Apps and music wont sync and it’s very very laggy and slow. Everytime I try to sync it goes for a bit but then says “Canceling Sync” for some odd reason just before it copy’s the apps. So now I have a laggy phone with tons of pages of apps that have the loading bar on it and don’t work. I’m gonna wait for the next beta that hopefully corrects all these bugs!.

  16. Shane

    06/11/2013 at 7:44 pm

    I have an iPhone 5 and messed around with iOS 7 all day today. Most of the core apps seem to run fine, there’s a bit of noticeable lag and hangs with some of the animations but not really anything show stopping. A few of my 3rd party apps have issues which is to be expected. Unfortunately, I use the VOIP app Talkatone very heavily and and it isn’t reliably able to receive calls on iOS 7 at the moment and that’s a dealbreaker for me.

    As such I can also report that I was successfully able to downgrade back to iOS 6.1.4 using DFU mode without issues. Just make sure you backup your iOS 6 device first so that you can restore using that backup after downgrading because you CAN NOT use a backup created in iOS 7 once you go back to 6.

  17. Dataggindee

    06/12/2013 at 4:08 am

    SMH Exactly why not everyone should have access to the download. It’s a beta. If you have issues, this page is NOT the forum to voice issues. How can the actual Apple developers fix said issue without posting on an actual developers forum. All in all good piece of work by Apple, and the next few beta’s will get better with time. You will also see certain app developers start updating their apps to become compatible. Unless that app hasn’t had an update since 2011.

  18. Scott Wear

    06/12/2013 at 9:01 am

    I personally, found the beta to be worth it. Of course there are going to be issues, it’s a beta, not a finished product. I love the new look safari and all the new features. Being a tech guy, I think its funny how they say its so hard to revert back. That is far from the truth.

    • Noah Cohen

      06/12/2013 at 8:39 pm

      Exactly

  19. Luke

    06/12/2013 at 4:00 pm

    Has anyone done this on the 4s ? And also if I restore after updating will it be set back to the pervious iOS ?

    • Noah Cohen

      06/12/2013 at 8:38 pm

      Yes, Luke, I did. It works very well except for the awful battery life. :( And to answeer your question, yes, if you restore it will bring you back to ios 6.1.4

      • Faisal

        06/17/2013 at 8:32 am

        for iPhone 4S i think the latest iOS is 6.1.3 not 6.1.4 (this one for iPhone 5) …. yes it is buggy and battery life is so missed up , but isn’t it like you have a jailbreak on your phone? ….. i have no issue charging the battery all the time.

        But i have another question, when the final iOS 7 release , can i update this beta easily ?? or should i do a DFU mode ? or even i need to downgrade it 1st ?

        Need help here ….. Thanks

  20. Pgs3000

    06/19/2013 at 3:30 pm

    i got os7 running on my iphone5. It works fine. not laggy at all.

    some apps that don’t work properly with this beta are Skype and angry birds friends. Some text fields in apps like facebook are not correctly implemented, but that were all problems i could find so far.

  21. Dyre Logan

    06/20/2013 at 9:25 pm

    I’m curious about only one app I use all the time. Viber. Has anyone had any issues with this, if any of you have it? I talk to my friend in thailand every day with this and don’t want any issues if I decide to update to 7 beta. Thank you in advance. I have iPhone 5 for verizon if it makes a difference.

  22. Lucas crutchfield

    06/23/2013 at 4:29 pm

    Well I’m an android fan, and seeing as I fried my droid with 360watts, I am now stuck with an iPhone 4S, to my luck. But with all the missing features that I love in android, I couldn’t stand ios 6. Luckily the ios 7 beta has a decent amount of similar features to keep me satisfied. Beta 1 so far has a few bugs, most are ignore able or to be expected, but a few are annoying and in your face. All the advertised features are in the beta, and most work perfectly well, and it seems that almost all my apps run perfectly well, and they also seems to be sorta a legacy mode that allows non compatible apps to run as if they are running in ios 6. Over all as a google fan, ios7 is a huge leap in the right direction for me.

  23. Coldfish

    06/24/2013 at 3:04 am

    you can do it for free without having UDID regist
    Simply restore your phone using shift restore
    then set up your phone as new iphone
    then click shift + update and select the ipsw compatible with your phone and here ya go

  24. paras

    06/29/2013 at 2:47 am

    i think after Mr Steve has left it all thing are done bad and even not proper update new thing not given no changes or not new thing they are copy cat staff i think they are not getting new ideas i think hahahahaha i think we are fulls that we have got this costly cell

    • mike

      07/23/2013 at 12:36 pm

      wow I wish I could spell like you!!
      copy cat staff… we are fulls
      all thing done bad.. wow:)

  25. Samir

    07/24/2013 at 5:11 am

    Apparently I bought the udid registration from another source since I’m not a developer. Last night the software expired and since then I cannot do anything with my phone. Thought of downgrading it and yes I did it. One thing that I couldnt figure out is still the phone could not be activated since it needed an apple id to be setup which seems not to be mine. It showed a hint of the apple id with numerous asterisks and I could obviously notice that this wasn’t my ID and even after entering my ID, activation could not be completed. My phone is now lagging around and I dont have any simple clue on what to do about this.

    Can anyone assist please?

  26. Francisco Javier

    09/08/2013 at 11:07 pm

    Question?
    I have IOS 7 the only issue i have is that I can download any apps and the Siri male voice doesn’t work. If i wait till Apple releases the finished version would i be able to download it via air?

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