Apple recently released a wave of beta updates, including iOS 18.4 beta 1, which introduced some exciting new Apple Intelligence features. One of the standout additions was the “Sketch” drawing style for the Image Playground, a tool designed to enhance user creativity with AI-powered image generation. However, despite these new features, several highly anticipated updates—such as visual intelligence via the Action Button for iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max—were noticeably absent. Additionally, there was no sign of a personalized Siri, a rumored enhancement that may not debut until iOS 18.5.
Boot Loop Issues Lead to Apple Pulling Updates
Shortly after the release of iOS 18.4 beta 1 and iPadOS 18.4 beta 1, Apple was forced to pull the updates for certain iPhone and iPad models due to widespread reports of devices experiencing boot looping issues. This frustrating problem, which occurs when a device continuously restarts without successfully booting up, left many users unable to access their devices.
Boot loops are not entirely new to iPhone users. A similar issue arose last year when Apple rolled out iOS 17.3 beta 2, which caused boot loops on iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and iPhone 15 models. This time, the affected devices include:
Impacted iPhone Models:
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 mini
Impacted iPad Models:
- iPad 8 (Cellular)
- iPad Air 4 (Wi-Fi)
- iPad Air 4 (Cellular)
- iPad Air 11-inch (M2) (Cellular)
- iPad Air 13-inch (M2) (Cellular)
For users with these devices, installing the beta resulted in their iPhones and iPads becoming essentially useless until Apple re-releases a patched version of the update.
Apple Watch Series 6 Users Also Face Problems
The problems weren’t limited to iPhones and iPads. Two Apple Watch users took to Reddit to report that installing watchOS 11.4 beta 1 had bricked their devices. One affected model was a Series 6, while the other user’s Apple Watch model was not specified. Apple took swift action and pulled watchOS 11.4 beta 1 specifically for Series 6 models.
According to @aaronp613 on Twitter, all impacted units were Series 6 models, including:
- Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS, 40mm)
- Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS, 44mm)
- Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS + Cellular, 40mm)
- Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS + Cellular, 44mm)
For users affected by this issue, their watches have become non-functional until Apple addresses the problem and re-releases the update.
Apple’s Expected Response: When Will the Fix Arrive?
As of now, Apple has not provided a specific timeline for when the pulled updates will be re-released. However, given the severity of the boot loop and bricking issues, Apple is likely working swiftly to diagnose the root cause and develop a fix. Until the corrected updates are made available, affected iPhone and iPad users are left with essentially unusable devices. And Apple Watch Series 6 users will have to wait for a stable version of watchOS 11.4 beta.
The situation underscores the risks of installing beta software. Particularly on older devices that may struggle with new software updates due to aging hardware and limited system resources.
The Perils of Beta Software: Should You Install It?
The issues surrounding iOS 18.4 beta 1, iPadOS 18.4 beta 1, and watchOS 11.4 beta 1 highlight why many device owners hesitate before installing beta software. While beta versions offer early access to exciting new features, they also come with inherent risks, such as software bugs, reduced performance, and, in extreme cases, device failure.
It’s worth noting that the most severely impacted devices in this case were not the newest models. Apple strives to include as many devices as possible in its beta program each year. But older models with aging processors, lower RAM, and battery degradation can struggle with the demands of new software updates.
If you own a device that is more than three years old, it may be wise to wait a few days after a beta update is released to see if any major issues are reported. This approach can help you avoid potential headaches and ensure that your device remains fully functional.
A Double Whammy for Some Users
One unlucky Apple user shared his frustration on social media after experiencing problems with both his iPhone and Apple Watch at the same time. He reported that his iPhone became stuck on the “Installing” screen. While his Apple Watch Series 6 entered a boot loop, alternating between a black screen and the Apple logo.
This unfortunate situation serves as a cautionary tale for users eager to install beta software on multiple devices. While beta programs provide a glimpse into the future of Apple’s software ecosystem, they also come with a level of unpredictability that can leave devices temporarily unusable.
Conclusion: Proceed with Caution
The release and subsequent rollback of iOS 18.4 beta 1, iPadOS 18.4 beta 1, and watchOS 11.4 beta 1 serve as a reminder of the risks associated with beta software. While Apple is expected to re-release the updates soon, users with impacted devices are left in limbo until a fix is provided.
For those considering beta software, patience and caution are key. If your device is not your primary phone or tablet, testing beta software can be an exciting way to explore upcoming features. However, if you rely on your device for daily use, it may be best to wait until Apple irons out the bugs and releases a more stable version.
In the meantime, affected users can only hope that Apple’s fix arrives sooner rather than later, restoring their devices to full functionality.
