(Illustration by Pixabay)
Gadgetren – Before it is released to users in its entirety, a software, both an application and an operating system, will undergo various stages of testing during its development.
Testing is generally intended to identify bugs or problems with the software being developed so that it can be fixed before it is officially released. So later users can use the application or operating system more comfortably.
Due to the testing stages in the developer, release or update of the software it is not uncommon for there to be multiple versions of downloads. Big companies like Apple have released products ranging from public beta, closed beta and developer betas.
Public beta version
As the name suggests, the Public Beta Build is a version of the software released in the public testing stage. It will usually be available before the app is released or the final release of an OS update so that general users can try it first.
The Public Beta version of the software slides closer to the release-ready official version with fewer development bugs. Besides being designed to test apps or operating systems before their official release, developers also often use them to see the market.
It’s just that the Public Beta Build remains different from the stable build that was released as the final build. There is still a chance that we may later encounter some errors, problems or malfunctions while trying to install it.
Public betas can generally be downloaded by users more widely, but with different conditions for each developer. For example, in an iOS update, those of us who want to install it must first register Apple Beta Software Program.
Closed Beta version
Before the release of the Public Beta Build, some developers were also often seen conducting closed tests. They will also provide a downloadable version of the Closed Beta Build software upon implementation.
Unlike the Public Beta Build, the Closed Beta Build is available on a limited basis to a smaller number of users. Those of us who wish to install this version of the software usually have to meet certain terms or conditions imposed by the developer.
Closed Betas, for example, will only be available for specific regions or will apply to users who receive an invitation from the developer. So not everyone can get a chance even though they are registered.
The good news is that users don’t really need to rush to install this version. The Closed Beta Build software is far from stable because it still has many bugs or development issues that make it less suitable for general users.
Developer Beta Build
In addition to Public and Closed Betas, several companies have also released software in the form of Developer Beta Builds. This release is specifically designed to help other developers more easily customize what they develop.
Apple and Google are among them. The two tech giants are releasing updates for both iOS and Android with Developer Beta Builds to help developers adapt their apps with the new support on their operating systems.
The Developer Beta Build itself is said to be closer to the Public Beta Build, although there are still a few bugs out there. It’s just that it’s often launched first so that other developers can quickly customize it.
