New watchOS beta for developers

Apple has doled out release candidate developer beta versions for tvOS 16.5 and watchOS 9.5, as well as for HomePod.

These updates are available for developers via the Apple Developer Center or by updating their hardware if already running beta operating systems. Public beta versions are expected to follow soon after the developer updates through the Apple Beta Software Program.

The release candidates come after the fourth round of testing that Apple had rolled out on May 2. However, there was no information available about any new features or changes in these operating systems in the betas themselves.

The RC versions are offered ahead of a full public release, expected next week.

The build number for watchOS 9.5's fifth beta is 20T562, which replaces build 20T5560a from the previous beta. Similarly, the new build number for tvOS 16.5 and HomePod is 20L562, which is an upgrade from 20L5559a.

In the previous release of watchOS, version 9.4, Apple added AFib history in several countries, including Colombia, Malaysia, Moldova, Thailand, and Ukraine. Additionally, they made adjustments to wake-up alarms to prevent the cover-to-mute gesture from silencing them.

AppleInsider and Apple strongly suggest users don't install beta operating systems or other beta software on "mission-critical" or primary devices, as there is the small chance of issues that could result in the loss of data. Testers should instead use secondary or non-essential hardware and ensure they have sufficient backups of their critical data at all times.

Find any changes in the new betas? Reach out to us on Twitter at @AppleInsider or @Andrew_OSU, or send Andrew an email at [email protected].

Andrew Orr

Andrew is a writer and commentator who has been sharing his insights on technology since 2015. He has authored numerous online articles covering a range of topics including Apple, privacy, and security. Andrew joined AppleInsider in 2022 as a Contributing Writer covering news, tips, and reviews.