Apple's new iOS 8 Beta 5 has just been released on Monday, Aug. 4, confirming rumors from two weeks ago.
Once again BGR has accurately predicted the release of the Beta 5, which Apple has begun rolling out to developers. The tech site has also stated that the Beta 6 will be available in Aug. 15, according to their inside sources.
For average users, it is important to remember that the iOS 8 betas are intended for developers only. Although the Beta 5 includes a number of fixes for bugs from the previous beta, the update also introduces a new host of bugs as well. Hence, the majority of users may want to consider using iOS 7.1, while waiting for the final version of iOS 8.
Though the latest Apple OS beta is not available to all consumers, the recent rollout indicates that the iOS 8 is one step closer to a public release. Speculation from tech gossip circles suggest the iOS 8 is due for release this coming fall, though no exact launch date has been given.
Certainly, the secretive Apple is not stepping up to confirm such release date rumors. So, consumers will have to wait patiently for more word from the vaunted tech giant.
Devices confirmed to be receiving the iOS 8 include the iPhone 4s, iPhone 5, iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPad 2, iPad Mini, iPad Mini with Retina Display (a.k.a. 'iPad Mini 2)', and the fifth-generation iPod. Developers using those devices will be able to download the latest iOS 8 Beta over-the-air.
Absent from the list of devices getting the new update is the iPhone 4 smartphone as well as the original iPad tablet. Both devices were released four years ago, which is old by mobile device standards.
Unveiled at WWDC 2014 in June, the iOS 8 will soon be the standard on all next-gen Apple smartphones and tablets. Top features coming with the final release include the QuickType keyboard function, new travel time notification feature, enhanced privacy, better battery management, health app, and family sharing features.
