Apple’s iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 are finally here, bringing a host of new features and improvements to your iPhone and iPad. These updates, initially available as developer betas, have now been released as public betas, allowing users to experience the latest software before its official release. This article delves into the exciting new features offered by iOS 14 and iPadOS 14, outlines which devices are eligible for the update, and provides a step-by-step guide on how to download and install the public beta.
iOS 14, iPadOS 14: Will My iPhone or iPad Get iOS 14?
Before diving into the features and download process, it’s crucial to determine whether your device is eligible for the update. As always, Apple releases new software updates for a limited range of devices. Remember, installing a beta version of software can lead to unexpected bugs and instability, so it’s highly recommended to only install the beta on a secondary iPhone or iPad.
Here’s a list of iPhones that are compatible with iOS 14:
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 6s
- iPhone 6s Plus
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
- iPhone SE (1st generation)
Here’s a list of iPads compatible with iPadOS 14:
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (all models)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (all models)
- iPad Air 3rd generation
- iPad (8th generation)
- iPad mini (5th generation)
- iPad (7th generation)
- iPad (6th generation)
- iPad Air 2
- iPad mini 4
iOS 14, iPadOS 14 Public Beta 1: How To Download and Install
Now that you’ve confirmed your device’s eligibility, let’s get this public beta downloaded and installed.
Before you begin, it’s crucial to back up your device and ensure it has a minimum of 50% battery life or is connected to a charger.
Follow these steps:
- Sign up for Apple’s Beta Software Program: Visit the official beta program webpage on Apple’s website: https://beta.apple.com/sp/betaprogram/.
- Enroll Your Device: Log in using your Apple ID and register your iPhone or iPad.
- Download the Beta Update: Once enrolled, navigate to your device’s Settings > General > Software Update. The latest iOS 14 or iPadOS 14 public beta build should be available for download.
- Install the Update: After the software is downloaded, begin the installation process. Your iPhone or iPad will automatically reboot to complete the update and you’ll be running iOS 14 or iPadOS 14.
Exploring iOS 14’s Exciting New Features
iOS 14 is packed with a slew of new features, adding a fresh and streamlined feel to iPhone user experience. Here’s a rundown of some of the most exciting additions:
1. App Library: A New Home for Your Apps
The App Library is a smart and organized app management solution. No more endless scrolling through multiple home screens. Apple’s algorithms automatically group apps into categories like Social, Productivity, and Entertainment. You can also find apps using the search bar.
2. Widgets: Put Your Most Used Content on Display
iOS 14 allows you to customize your home screen with widgets that display dynamic information from your favorite apps. You can add weather updates, calendar reminders, news headlines, and more directly onto your home screen, making key information more accessible.
3. Picture-in-Picture Mode (PiP) for All
Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode, previously available only for video calls, has been expanded to all video content. Now, you can watch videos while using other apps, even while using FaceTime calls.
4. Redesigned Siri and a More Powerful Search
Siri received a makeover in iOS 14. The search function within Siri is more intuitive, offering smart and context-aware search results. You can simply type in a question or request, and Siri will provide tailored and relevant answers.
5. Enhanced Privacy Controls
With iOS 14, Apple has strengthened its focus on user privacy. New features include:
- App Privacy Report: Provides insights into the data apps are accessing, allowing users to make informed decisions about what they share.
- Recording Indicator: Displays a recording indicator on the status bar when an app is accessing the microphone or camera.
iPadOS 14: Taking iPad Productivity to New Heights
iPadOS 14 builds on the functionality of its predecessor, delivering even more powerful tools for iPad users. Key features include:
1. Redesigned Sidebars: Enhanced Functionality
iPadOS 14 introduces a redesigned sidebar for apps like Files, Mail, and Safari, offering a more intuitive and efficient way to access essential functions.
2. Scribble: Handwriting to Text
Scribble allows you to seamlessly use your Apple Pencil to write in any text field on your iPad. The handwriting is automatically converted to text, eliminating the need for a physical keyboard for many tasks.
3. Improved Multitasking
iPadOS 14 enhances multitasking, introducing a new approach to splitting your screen. Users can now choose from several different views to accommodate multiple apps on the screen simultaneously.
4. Redesigned Design for Apple Pencil
The Apple Pencil is more integrated into iPadOS 14. You can now easily tap on tools or select options directly on the Pencil’s tip, making it more intuitive and efficient for note-taking and sketching.
Final Thoughts
iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 offer a significantly upgraded experience for iPhone and iPad owners. The new features cater to a wider range of users, from those seeking easier app management to those who rely on their iPad for productivity.
While the public beta gives you early access to these exciting features, it’s essential to remember that beta software can be unstable and may contain bugs. If you’re unsure about installing the beta, it’s best to wait for the official release.
The public beta offers a valuable opportunity to test out the new software, provide feedback to Apple, and be among the first to enjoy the many benefits of iOS 14 and iPadOS 14.
