Since releasing iOS 7 in beta at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) earlier this month, Apple has released a second beta version to developers with updates to fix bugs and make improvements. For those developers, Apple’s next-generation mobile operating system is now available to download through Software Update in the iPhone’s native Settings application.
One improvement with the beta 2 version of iOS 7 strictly for developers is support for Apple’s flagship tablet, the iPad, as well as the iPad mini. The initial WWDC release was for iPhone and iPod touch only. According to accurate leak site and fan blog Apple Insider, “iPad users will need to upgrade from iOS 6 through iTunes on a Mac or PC.”
The highly-anticipated iOS 7 has made waves prior to and since WWDC for its new company direction and overhauled user interface. Expected for a fall release this year alongside new hardware–notably new versions of the iPhone 5S, possible low-cost iPhone, iPad, and iPad mini–iOS 7 the mobile OS will sport a UI that lacks the usual signature Apple skeumorphic design embedded in apps, icons, and interfaces throughout nearly all layers while boasting a flatter design at the hands of VP Industrial Design Jony Ive.
New updates for iOS in beta 2 include, as noted by Mac Rumors:
“- Beta 2 is available not only for iPhone and iPod touch, but also iPad and iPad mini. The first beta did not include official iPad, with Apple announcing that iPad versions of iOS 7 would follow in the coming weeks.
– In line with previous hints, the Voice Memos app has returned in beta 2.
– The new male and female Siri voices showed off by Apple at WWDC are now available in English.
– Multiple users are reporting that Siri is much faster than in beta 1.
– In addition to iOS beta 2, Apple has also released Xcode 5 Developer Preview 2 and a second beta of Apple TV Software version 5.4.”
Very early reviews of iOS 7 indicate that the new collection of interfaces is likely to bode well for those who relate more to the visual aspects, as it attempts to prompt a more solid relationship between the user and the device. One could boil it down to the old adage “less is more.”
But don’t take my word for it. Just last week a leaked video posted to YouTube from a Russia-based account depicted iOS 7 running on an iPad through a number of basic swipe functions and operations. Apple has yet to comment on the video, which will lack any credibility until the Cupertino electronics giant decides to, though the color-schemes, fully functional notifications bar, and color-coded apps are strikingly reminiscent of what CEO Tim Cook and company unveiled at WWDC in early June.
