iPadOS Beta: How to Install It & What to Expect

Can't wait for the shipping version of iPadOS 16? If you're an early adopter who'd like to get early access to Apple's new iPad operating system and give feedback on how it's working, you can install the public beta version of iPadOS 16 now. In this guide we'll go over how to do it and whether it's the right decision for you.

Now that Apple has made its big software update announcements at the start of the 2022 Worldwide Developer's Conference, we're all excited to check out the new iOS 16 beta, the iPadOS 16 beta, and all the new Apple software updates. Fortunately, the public betas are available now, and anyone can check them out!

iPadOS Beta

If you're wondering what iPad you have, we have an article that goes over all the iPad generations.

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The following devices are capable of downloading and running iPadOS 16.

• All iPad Pro models
• iPad Air third generation and later
• iPad fifth generation and later
• iPad mini fifth generation and later

How to Sign Up for Public iPad Beta Testing

In this guide, we'll be covering how to sign up for the public beta program, which is available now. Though the public iPadOS 16 beta is likely to be quite stable, part of the deal you make when you install it entails giving feedback to Apple, including on bugs and broken features. Before you install the public iPad beta, consider whether you're willing to deal with more bugs in your daily iPad use. In my experience with previous Apple betas, however, I have found them to be remarkably stable.

The Apple Beta Program signup process is fairly straightforward. Before you update your iPad to Apple's latest operating system, make sure to back up your device to iCloud or back up to your computer.

1. Plug your iPad into power and make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi or a stable, wired internet connection.
2. Visit the Apple Beta Program page and tap sign up, or sign in if you've previously participated with an earlier beta version of iPadOS
   
   
3. You’ll be prompted to sign in with your Apple ID and password.
   
   
4. You'll be taken to a Guide for Public Betas. If you haven't downloaded a public beta before, scroll down, tap enroll your iPad, and follow the prompts.
   
   
5. Follow the link provided or tap Download profile to download the configuration profile.
   
   
6. Tap Allow.
   
   
7. Tap Close.
   
   
8. Open the Settings app.
   
   
9. Tap Profile Downloaded under your name.
   
   
10. Tap Install.
    
    
11. Enter your Passcode.
    
    
12. Tap Install.
    
    
13. Tap Restart.
    
    
14. After your iPad restarts, open Settings and go to Software Update under General.
    
    
15. Tap Download and Install.
    
    
16. Once the beta is installed, you'll notice a new app called Feedback; this is where you can report bugs and glitches to Apple.
    
    
17. Accept the conditions.
    
    
18. Sign in with your Apple ID, and you're good to go!
    
    

Welcome to iPadOS 16 Public Beta!​