Apple on Monday seeded the fifth beta of tvOS 12.1 to developers and public beta testers. The Cupertino firm also released the fifth beta of watchOS 5.1 to developers.
The fifth beta’s build is number 16J5602a. It replaces the fourth beta, which was build number 16J5600a.
The upcoming operating system is compatible with fourth and fifth-generation Apple TV models. The new beta can be downloaded to Apple TV units with the proper profile installed via Xcode.
tvOS 12.1 contains the usual bug fixes and performance enhancements. However, no other changes have been announced. We’ll keep our ear to the ground and stay alert for any updates on what might be included in the beta, and will publish them in this space.
The fifth watchOS 5.1 beta is designated as build number 16R5589c, up from the fourth developer beta build 16R5584a.
Developers will need to have the proper configuration profile installed, which can be downloaded from the Apple Developer Center. Once the profile is installed, the beta can be downloaded using the dedicated “Watch” app on the iPhone by going to “General” -> “Software Update.”
The Apple Watch must have at least 50% battery remaining, and be placed on the charger and be in range of the iPhone. We would recommend strongly that this beta only be installed on devices other than your day-to-day device, as it is an early beta version.
The watchOS 5.1 update is compatible with Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3 Apple Watch models. It cannot be installed on first-generation “Series 0” Apple Watch models.
watchOS 5.1 offers support for Group FaceTime, allowing calls to be answered in an audio-only mode on the Apple Watch, to chat with up to 32 people at one time.
The beta also offers a full-screen new “Color” watch face option for the Apple Watch Series 4, allowing users to choose from multiple shades. A filled-in circular color option is available for older Watch models.
