iOS 13: Apple releases new beta version of iPhone software as public release date nears

Apple has released a new beta version of iOS 13, its new software for iPhones, as the public release nears.

The latest update is the second version of the iOS 13 beta for developers. The first was released on 3 June, after Apple revealed it during its WWDC conference.

That means any register developer can download the update, which should squash some of the many bugs that were reported in the first version that was released.

For now, the new software is only available to those developers, who have to pay to be a part of Apple's developer programme.

But the new update also suggests that the software should be making its way to the public, too. Apple offers anyone the opportunity to download the software before it is publicly released in September to anyone who joins its public beta programme, in return for them reporting any problems and offering feedback.

The company said that would arrive in July. It gives the operating system updates to developers early to allow them to start getting to work on the software they are building – but holds them back before they go to the public, to ensure they don't break their devices.

The new download comes with the same warning that was present on the last beta version of iOS, warning users that it contained bugs and should only be installed if absolutely necessary.

"Important Note for Thrill Seekers: If you’re interested in living on the edge and trying out the great new features in iOS 13, we strongly advise waiting for the many bug fixes and refinements coming to the public beta later this month."

The first beta could only be installed by plugging a phone into a Mac and downloading the software through Apple's developer portal. The new update can be installed over-the-air, letting registered developers updating phones running the beta the same way everyone else does, by using the Settings app.

You can find everything about iOS 13 and what it will bring to iPhones here.