Exciting features have been announced for the next version of Apple's mobile operating system, iOS 15.4, including the ability to use Face ID with a mask and access new emoji elegant. If you can't wait, you can test them out now in the first available public beta, assuming you're willing to risk any bugs. Here we walk you through the steps to install the software.
Before we begin, here's the usual word of warning about installing unfinished beta software:These builds may seem stable for general use, but they may contain bugs. Your experience may differ from others, depending on the apps you use. And finally, if you decide to install, we suggest that you back up your device data in case things go wrong.
Also, some of the new features may not be available, depending on the phone you have. For example, according to 9to5Mac you won't be able to use the "Use Face ID with Mask" feature unless you have an iPhone 12 or newer.
Finally, if you haven't installed iOS 15 yet, keep in mind that these are the supported devices for this OS:
- iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max
- iPhone X, iPhone XR
- iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 6S, iPhone 6S Plus
- iPhone SE (first and second generation)
- iPod Touch (seventh generation)
How to install iOS 15..4 beta 1
- Go to Apple Beta Software Portal from your phone's Safari browser and agree to sign in with your Apple ID.
- Under the "Get Started" subheading, select "Enroll your iOS device" if you haven't already enrolled it.
- Once signed up, scroll down to a reminder to make sure you've created a backup of your phone's content in case you need to revert to a previous state.
- Keep scrolling down until you find a button that says "Download Profile", then tap it. This will bring up a warning that the website is trying to download a configuration profile. Select "Allow". You will get a pop-up saying that you can set the new profile from the Settings app.
- Open the Settings app. A new section titled "Uploaded Profile" should be added at the top. Select it and you will have access to the beta software download.
- Select "Install" in the upper right corner. You will need to re-enter your password and accept the usual very long statement of consent by pressing "Install" once more.
- You may need to restart your phone to activate the profile.
- Congratulations, you did it!