watchOS 11.1, tvOS 18.1, and visionOS 2.1 beta 3 now available for developers

Apple has rolled out beta 3 of watchOS 11.1, tvOS 18.1, and visionOS 2.1 today, offering developers an opportunity to test the latest features and improvements. However, curiously absent from this release are the beta updates for iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, which are expected to bring the much-anticipated Apple Intelligence features to supported devices. These updates are immediately available for registered developers through the Apple Developer Program portal.

The decision to hold back beta releases for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS might stem from Apple’s efforts to fine-tune Apple Intelligence, the AI platform originally slated to launch with the x.0 updates but delayed to the x.1 versions. This feature, restricted to iPhones, iPads, and Macs, could explain why watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS received their beta updates ahead of the core platforms that support this AI functionality. Apple may be saving further tweaks to Apple Intelligence for a forthcoming beta release cycle, possibly arriving later this week.

As the company prepares to release the final versions of iOS 18.1 and other related updates later this month, following an anticipated event that could unveil new M4-powered MacBook Pro models and a refreshed iPad mini, developers are left to speculate on what the next beta cycles might bring.

Updating to the latest beta version for Apple TV, Apple Watch, or Apple Vision Pro is straightforward—simply navigate to Settings > General > Software Update on the respective device. Developers enrolled in the Apple Developer Program can download and install these updates over the air. As for public beta testers, they should expect to see the latest public beta versions shortly, likely within the next day or two.

For now, today’s beta releases seem to focus on under-the-hood improvements and bug fixes. For instance, tvOS 18.1’s developer notes list fixes for Portraits and Memories & Slideshow screen savers, while watchOS 11.1 appears to include primarily internal adjustments. Notably, sleep apnea detection could be expanded to more countries where the feature has only recently received regulatory approval.

As we move deeper into Apple’s beta cycle for its major operating systems, there is anticipation for additional features in these updates. Apple TV users are still waiting for new Snoopy screen savers and broader support for 21:9 aspect ratios for projectors, while visionOS is expected to gain features such as a Mac virtual display with ultra-wide resolution.