Even as Apple's iOS 9 announcement continues to hog the limelight, the company has not forgotten about its iOS 8.4, which will release on June 30 along with Apple Music, the company's new music streaming service.
On June 9, Apple released the iOS 8.4 beta 4 for developers and also consumers who signed up to get early access to the software update ahead of its public rollout at the end of the month.
The fourth beta for iOS 8.4 has the build number 12H4125a and is available as an over-the-air (OTA) download for users who had beta 3 installed. Alternatively, one has the option to download iOS 8.4 beta 4 from Apple's developer portal manually.
The software update will bring several exciting new features, such as the new Music app, an improved iTunes Radio UI, a novel MiniPlayer and more. iOS 8.4 beta 4 is also set to bring bug fixes and improvements.
Apart from Apple Music, per the release notes, iOS 8.4 beta 4 will also bring audiobook playback via CarPlay and iBooks. It will also bring support for iBooks Author textbook for iPhone.
While Apple has not divulged details on the expected bug fixes, it is anticipated that the software update will bring fixes for issues with iOS 8.3, especially the Wi-Fi problem.
While iOS 8.4 beta 4 gets many new features, the core elements for the new Apple Music are still missing in action. For instance, there is no Beta radio available, no streaming and no Connect artist interaction either. However, the UI seems to have a major overhaul.
When users open the Music app, they will see the popup for Apple Music, which asks to begin the three-month trial. If you tap the option, you are diverted to another window that will show the available plans: $9.99 or $14.99. However, one cannot sign up for a plan since choosing a plan makes the option go gray and further signup is not possible.
iOS 8.4beta 4 also fixes notes and known issues in Music, Siri, Videos and WatchKit.
The complete details can be found in Apple's release notes for iOS 8.4 beta 4.
Photo: Microsiervos Geek Crew | Flickr
