In a brief update cycle, Apple has launched the initial release candidates for its latest operating systems, including iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, tvOS 18.3, visionOS 2.3, watchOS 11.3, and macOS 15.3.
On Tuesday, Apple introduced the first release candidates (RCs) from its current developer beta phase. These RC versions for iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, macOS Sequoia 15.3, tvOS 18.3, visionOS 2.3 and watchOS 11.3 are now available for testing.
Additionally, there were RC releases for previous versions as well; notably iPadOS 17.7.4 and macOS Monterey (14). Apple frequently offers updates to older software that typically include compatibility improvements and security enhancements.
The newly released builds of iOS 18.3 through to vision OS version follow the third developer beta round that was made available between January14th–15th; this came after an earlier round on January7th and the inaugural set on December16th.
For those interested in build numbers: both the RC releases of iPad OS and IOS version have a build number of “22D60,” superseding “22D5055b.” The Sequoia mac OS version also saw an upgrade to build “24D60” from its previous “24D5055b,” while vision OS has moved to ”22N896.”
Watch OS now stands at build “22S553,” whereas TV OS is at “22K557.” As for older versions like iPad OS version “17.”, it is identified by RC build number “21H414”, with Mac’s past iteration at “23H417.”
Though many users may not find groundbreaking features during this beta test period with IOS and IPAD O.S; references to an undocumented application named “Invites,” suggesting potential scheduling features for meetings have emerged.
Release notes regarding the first configuration mention fixes related to Genmoji where personalized images would fail unless another user was selected beforehand along with adjustments made to Writing Tools API which supports external applications.
AppleInsider recommends avoiding installation of these test operating system updates or any beta-level software on essential or primary devices due risk factors potentially leading data loss issues appearing unexpectedly.
Participants are encouraged instead utilize secondary devices as testing grounds alongside ensuring they maintain adequate backups of important files prior proceeding into any experimental installations.