Apple shares third developer beta of tvOS 17

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Now in its third round, Apple has issued the third developer beta build of tvOS 17 to members of its testing program.

Developers taking part in the beta can download the latest builds via the Apple Developer Center, or by updating hardware already running the beta operating systems. Public beta versions of milestone releases are usually provided a short while after the developer counterparts, and the public can try them out via the Apple Beta Software Program when they become available.

The third beta replaces the second, which Apple seeded on June 21, and the first from June 5. The third build is number 21J5303f, taking over from build two, 21J5293g.

The highlight new feature of tvOS 17 is FaceTime, with the app finally arriving on the Apple TV via the use of Continuity Camera and an iPhone. Rather than using a mobile device for a video call, you can instead view participants on a television, with the iPhone camera used as your webcam.

The Continuity Camera support extends into other areas, with a new karaoke experience in Apple Music showing a live feed under the lyrics to songs.

Control Center has been updated to take up less space and yet be more information-dense, with it including new options for game controllers, accessibility settings, and other controls. Screensavers have also changed, with two new Aerial options showing the Monument Valley and California's coastal redwoods.

Other changes include Fitness Plus customizable workout plans, VPN options, and the ability to locate a missing Apple TV remote using an iPhone.

AppleInsider and Apple strongly advise users don't install beta operating systems, or beta software in general, on to "mission-critical" or primary devices, as there is the 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].