IPSW Beta Downloads

Frequently Asked Questions

What is IPSW?

IPSW is a file format used to install iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, HomePod, and most recently, macOS firmware for devices equipped with Apple silicon. All Apple devices share the same IPSW file format for iOS firmware and their derivatives, allowing users to flash their devices through Finder or iTunes on macOS or Windows, respectively. Users can flash Apple silicon Macs through Apple Configurator 2.

How to install IPSW file?

1. Download the IPSW file for your device above.
2. Open the Finder on your Mac or Apple Devices app on Windows PC/laptop.
3. Connect your device to your computer with the cable that came with your device.
4. If you’re prompted for your device passcode or to Trust This Computer, follow the onscreen steps. If you forget your passcode, help is available.
5. Select your device when it appears in the Finder sidebar or in the iTunes window.
6. In the Summary panel, hold the Option key (Alt key if you use Windows) and click the "Check for Update" button.
7. Select the IPSW beta file you downloaded and click Open to start the installation.
8. After installing the beta, your device will reboot and will require a network connection to complete activation. Make sure to enable Developer Mode on your device. This will let you grant permission to run locally-installed apps on these platforms — for example, when you perform a build-and-run in Xcode or install an .ipa file with Apple Configurator.

More detail: How to install IPSW file →

Will I lose data when updating?

If you follow the above steps, you will not lose any data when updating. But I also recommend that you make a backup of your device before updating. Learn how to backup your iPhone and iPad →

What if I download the wrong file?

iTunes will stop the process if it detects that you have the wrong file for your device. The only thing it will cost you is another download, so please read carefully.

Where did you get these file URLs?

From the Apple Developer Center →

How do I know these are real?

You aren't downloading the file from this website. You are downloading it directly from Apple, as proved by the URL it downloads from. Also, if they weren't, iTunes would refuse to install them, as you cannot install modified IPSW files.

What does "RC" mean?

A release candidate build (RC) is typically the final build of a piece of software in the beta stages for developers. Typically it is the final build before a major release.

Up until before iOS/iPadOS 14.2, Apple used Golden Master (GM) but with 14.2 that changed to release candidate.