Apple has concluded the beta testing phase for iOS 18.3, which was wrapped up a few weeks ago. Typically, we would expect to see new beta versions appear soon after, yet we are still anticipating the arrival of iOS 18.4 beta 1. Fortunately, it seems our wait will soon come to an end.

Expected Release of iOS 18.4 Beta 1 Within the Upcoming Week

Apple’s software update schedule is generally quite consistent, with new beta versions typically launching shortly after a significant public software release.

However, this time around, that has not been the case. iOS 18.3 was released at the end of January, and yet here we are in mid-February without any new beta updates.

That should change soon.

Recently, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman shared that he anticipates the iOS 18.4 beta to launch sometime between the middle of this week and early next week.

This week has gone by without any beta release. However, an early next week launch seems quite plausible.

Monday, February 17 marks President’s Day in the United States, so a beta release that day is unlikely.

Additionally, on Wednesday, February 19, Apple has scheduled a special product event, making it unlikely for iOS 18.4 to be unveiled at the same time.

If Gurman’s insights hold true, we can anticipate the release of iOS 18.4 beta on Tuesday, February 18.

While there is a possibility of a later release in the week, a launch at some point next week seems highly probable.

Why is that? Because Apple has already stated that iOS 18.4 will be publicly available in April. Thus, they cannot delay the commencement of the beta testing phase for upcoming features, including enhancements to Apple Intelligence and Siri.

Extended Waiting Period Between Betas: Uncommon but Not Unusual

Experiencing a three-week gap between beta releases is uncommon, but it is not entirely without precedent.

Here’s a snapshot of winter software releases over the past three years:

2024

• Release of iOS 17.3: Monday, January 22
• iOS 17.4 beta 1: Thursday, January 25

2023

• Launch of iOS 16.3: Monday, January 23
• iOS 16.4 beta 1: Thursday, February 16

2022

• Introduction of iOS 15.3: Wednesday, January 26
• iOS 15.4 beta 1: Thursday, January 27

As illustrated, Apple typically rolls out its new x.4 beta shortly after an x.3 release. However, 2023 marked a deviation from that pattern, which appears to be repeating this year.

What are your predictions for the release date of the iOS 18.4 beta? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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