Apple issues update to third tvOS 17 developer beta for testing

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Apple has issued a mid-beta cycle update to the beta build of tvOS 17 to participants of its developer testing program.

Developers enrolled in the beta can pick up the latest builds via the Apple Developer Center, and by updating hardware already running the betas. Public beta versions of milestone releases generally appear some time after the developer counterparts, and the public can try them out via the Apple Beta Software Program when they become available.

Tuesday's update beta replaces the original third from July 5, which in turn took over from the second, which Apple seeded on June 21, and the first from June 5. The new build is number 21J5303h taking over from, 21J5303f.

The main new feature of tvOS 17 is FaceTime, with the messaging app finally arriving on the Apple TV thanks to the use of Continuity Camera and an iPhone. Instead of using a mobile device for a video call, you can view contacts on a TV, using the iPhone camera used as your webcam.

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

Control Center now takes up less space and is more information-dense, complete with new options for game controllers, accessibility settings, and other controls. Two new Aerial screensavers showing the Monument Valley and California's coastal redwoods have been added.

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].