Apple Seeds iOS 8.1 Beta for Developer Testing: What's New and Download Links

Apple has just rolled out its first beta iteration of the iOS 8.1 update for developer testing, while an earlier report suggested that the company is already working on the next few iOS 8 upgrades including iOS 8.2 and iOS 8.3.

The pre-release iOS 8.1 software with build number 12B401 is now available for download via Developer Center for iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, and Apple TV.

Device Compatibility

iOS 8.1 can be installed on the following iOS devices:

iPhone 4S; iPhone 5; iPhone 5c; iPhone 5s; iPhone 6; iPhone 6 Plus; iPad 2; iPad (third-generation); iPad (fourth-generation); iPad Air; iPad mini; iPad mini with Retina display; and iPod touch (fifth-generation).

The latest version of Apple's mobile OS features more open source content with support for third-party keyboards, interactive notifications and widgets alongside a few noteworthy changes.

Some of the key changes added to iOS 8.1 update are as follows (courtesy of iPhone Hacks):

  • Enable/disable Dictation in Keyboard Settings;
  • Recently Added is now renamed as 'Camera Roll in Photos';
  • iBooks Icon redesigned to match recent promotional materials;
  • Redesigned icons for third-party app permissions;
  • Hidden Settings for Apple Play; and
  • Other changes include larger icons in Notification Center widget view and bug-fixes.

Direct Download Links

iPad

iPhone

iPod touch

Those who need assistance in installing the iOS 8.1 beta firmware manually can follow our step-by-step guide posted here.

Apple