Apple has pulled the recently released iOS 17.3 beta 2 just hours after its initial release to developers, following multiple reports that it was bricking iPhones and causing devices to get stuck in boot loops.
Background on iOS 17.3 Beta
iOS 17.3 beta 1 was first seeded to developers on December 20, 2023. The update included bug fixes and performance improvements, as well as hints at some new features potentially coming in iOS 17.3.
Some of the new features found in the first iOS 17.3 beta included:
- Support for using the E-ink display on iPhone Pro models as an always-on lock screen
- New widget options on the lock screen and home screen
- Enhancements to CarPlay, including customizable backgrounds and widget support
The update overall was well received by developers and testers.
Beta 2 Release and Issues
On January 3, 2024, Apple seeded the second developer beta of iOS 17.3. The release came alongside new betas for macOS, watchOS, and tvOS.
However, shortly after iOS 17.3 beta 2 was released reports began surfacing of major issues. Many users found their iPhones getting stuck in endless reboot cycles after installing the update. Others had their devices completely bricked and unusable.
Within two hours of the beta’s release, Apple pulled it from developer channels. The company acknowledged the issues caused by the beta and said an updated build would be coming soon.
Impact on iPhone Users
While the bricking issues only impacted developers and public beta testers, the flawed iOS 17.3 beta 2 points to potential quality control issues in Apple’s iOS development process recently.
It also raises uncertainty around the timeline for a public release of iOS 17.3. The update was expected to launch in January or early February, bringing new features and fixes to all supported iPhone models. But with a botched beta, Apple may need to push back its release plans.
This comes alongside other recent iOS issues like cellular connectivity problems in iOS 17.2.1 impacting calling and mobile data for many users. It paints an uncharacteristic image of unreliable software releases from historically polished Apple.
| iOS Version | Issue | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| iOS 17.2.1 | Cellular connectivity problems | Calling, mobile data disrupted for many users |
| iOS 17.3 b2 | Bricking issues | Developer & public beta iPhones stuck in boot loops, bricked |
What Comes Next?
At this point, it’s unclear when a fixed iOS 17.3 beta may land. Apple did say it is working on updated builds for developers and public beta testers.
The company will certainly conduct further testing before re-releasing iOS 17.3 betas to limit the chances of repeat issues. Internal processes may also be reviewed to figure out what went wrong.
As for a public launch, Apple could still stick to an early February release if the underlying issues are resolved quickly in the next beta. But the company won’t risk rolling out iOS updates that aren’t stable, so delays are very possible.
Expect new betas in the coming weeks, then assess based on initial reception whether the problems are fully fixed.
For those already impacted, Apple may release device restore tools to rescue bricked units. There also may be compensation offered to developers who saw their iPhones seriously impacted during the botched beta process.
Stay tuned for more details as Apple works to address this rare stumbling block and get iOS 17.3 back on track for release.
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