Updates to iOS are sometimes a mixed bag, but they generally give us improvements more than they do bugs. Apple has been hard at work over the past few months, having already released two major updates since iOS 11 back on September 19th of this year. Surprisingly, it looks like we may see another patch sooner rather than later, as the first iOS 11.2.1 beta looks like it may arrive before the end of the year.
iOS 11.2.1 Beta Release
This speedy timeline for development of the iOS 11.2.1 beta is unexpected, considering 11.2 released just a few days ago. This most recent update fixed some operating system issues and provided users with several new features, but what can we expect from a new patch so soon? 11.3 may be sent out to developers pretty early next year, so we can expect iOS 11.2.1 to be a minor patch rather than a major release.
iOS 11.2 added some great new perks to the iPhone. Integration of Apple Pay Cash and a faster wireless charging technology for the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X were the main aspects of the patch, but perhaps more important were the wide variety of smaller improvements, refinements, and security fixes. All in all, it was a welcome update for iOS users — even if they aren’t users of Apple Pay Cash or wireless charging.
Better Patch, Better Performance
Jony Ive, Apple’s Chief Designer, has mentioned in an interview with Wallpaper, that we can expect Apple’s latest flagship to continue to improve in performance and capability as the software improves.
“I’ve always been fascinated by these products that are more general purpose. What I think is remarkable about the iPhone X is that its functionality is so determined by software. And because of the fluid nature of software, this product is going to change and evolve. In 12 months’ time, this object will be able to do things that it can’t now. I think that is extraordinary. I think we will look back on it and see it as a very significant point in terms of the products we have been developing.”
The IPhone X is already an incredibly capable device, but Apple’s recent track record of rapid iOS updates could mean that an increasingly optimized operating system will lead to one of the most impressive performers on the smartphone market.
After the recent security fiasco with MacOS, Apple seems to have a renewed commitment to more stable releases with timely bug fixes that improve security and usability. The iOS 11.2.1 beta won’t be groundbreaking in terms of new features or functionality, but it’s yet another patch that will refine and improve the iPhone experience.
