Apple iOS 8 Release Date for iPhone 4, 5, iPad Air, iPad Mini 2: Beta 4 Released Over-the-Air

By Richard Waelty
Apple iOS8

Apple's iOS 8 Beta 4 has been released over-the-air to developers on Monday, July 21 -- following predictions made earlier by a notable leak site.

This recent development confirms the Beta 4 release predictions made by BGR last week. Participants in the testing phase can also download the software at the iOS Developer site. The current update has been designated build number 12A4331s.

On Monday, BGR shared the official Apple change log that was made available to developers. The Beta 4 fixes many bugs, and adds new features such as a redesigned control center and new tips app.

For average users, it is important to remember that the iOS betas are intended for developers testing out the software. There is also danger the betas contains bugs. The majority of users may want to consider using the latest version of iOS 7.1, while waiting for the final version of iOS 8.

Unveiled at WWDC 2014 in June, the iOS 8 will soon be the latest operating system for Apple's smartphone and tablet lineup. Top features coming with the final release include the QuickType keyboard function, new travel time notification feature, enhanced privacy, better battery management, health app, and family sharing features.

Devices confirmed to be receiving the iOS 8 include the iPhone 4s, iPhone 5, iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPad 2, iPad Mini, iPad Mini with Retina Display (a.k.a. 'iPad Mini 2)', and the fifth-generation iPod. Developers using those devices will be able to download the latest iOS 8 Beta over-the-air.

Absent from the list of devices getting the new update is the iPhone 4 smartphone as well as the original iPad tablet. Both devices were released four years ago, which is old by mobile device standards.

It is not clear when the iOS 8 will be released, even though Apple has already announced a vague launch date for fall 2014.

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