iPhone 7 Plus Update: iOS 10.1 Beta For Developers And Public Testers Adds New Camera Feature
Apple has recently seeded a new iOS 10 update — iOS 10.0.2. But those who want to experience a more advanced version of the latest iteration of the iOS can opt to download the 10.1 Beta instead. The iPhone 7 Plus particularly received a significant change from this beta update.
The Cupertino-based tech giant first released the 10.1 beta for registered developers earlier this week. It came out less than ten days after the official release of the iOS 10 software to supported mobile devices, according to GSM Arena. And just a day after releasing it for the members of its paid developer program, the iPhone maker made it available for the public testers.
Mac enthusiast website 9to5Mac noted that the biggest highlight of the iOS 10.1 beta for developers and public testers could be found on the iPhone 7 Plus, specifically in its camera. The new test version of the iOS 10 test includes a beta of the Portrait mode found on the smartphone’s camera settings. Using this iPhone 7 Plus feature, the camera is expected to take more beautiful photos through the bokeh effect using its rear-facing dual-camera system. Essentially, this allows for a blurred background, making the subject stand out even more.
Explaining the system of the two rear cameras for the iPhone 7 Plus, BGR’s review noted that the smartphone’s primary shooter “actually captures two images, one with the 28mm lens and one with the 56mm lens.” Apple’s software then “takes data from both images and then fuses them together to create one unified photograph,” it further explained.
The Portrait mode for the camera was announced early this month, during Apple’s unveiling event that saw the first official appearance of its newest smartphones, the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus as well as the Apple Watch Series 2 and the Airpods. However, this new camera feature was not included in the initial release of the iOS 10 but the tech giant assured they will make it available before the year ends. And with the Portrait mode’s inclusion in the newest beta version, it became clearer that iPhone 7 Plus users will officially get it once Apple makes the official public release of the iOS 10.1 set for later this year.
GSM Arena further discussed the iPhone 7 Plus’ Portrait mode on iOS 10.1 Beta, which read as follows.
“Note that this is still in ‘Beta’ mode, which means there could be bugs and inconsistencies, or limited features (such as inability to record video in this mode) when using the iSight Duo camera in Portrait Mode. Although the feature was not ready at launch, Apple is taking its time with the feature instead of rushing it, which is also why it is only available in Beta now.”
Take note as well that installing a beta version of a certain firmware poses some risks. Given that the iOS 10.1 is still in a beta stage at this time, it may come with bugs and issues and limitations.
In addition to iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, Apple’s iOS 10 is also compatible with older models such as iPhone 5, 5c, 5s, iPhone SE, iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6s, and 6s Plus. Other supported devices are the iPad 4th generation, iPad Air and iPad Air 2, iPad Pro, iPad Mini 2, 3, and 4, and lastly, the iPod Touch 6th generation.
Compatibility is key. Check to be sure your device can update to iOS 10: pic.twitter.com/AxxLuU74cH
— Apple Support (@AppleSupport) September 6, 2016
For the developers, the iOS 10.1 beta can be downloaded by heading to the Apple Developer Center. Meanwhile, to access the public beta, users need to be a member of the free Apple Beta Program first. After successfully signing up, the next thing to do is to enroll the iOS device. Outlet 9to5Mac offers a guide on how to properly download and install the iOS 10.1 beta, or any other beta versions of the Apple mobile firmware.
[Featured Image by Spencer Platt/Getty Images]
