Apple releases iOS 5 beta 5 for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch

On Saturday, Apple released iOS 5 Beta 5 for the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. The software update, which could possibly be one of the last 3 beta releases, was made available as an OTA (over-the-air) update to developers.

Registered developers can download iOS 5 beta 5 from Apple’s developer portal or update their devices over the air. However, the OTA update can only be performed after deleting all content and settings from the device. Once the device as been wiped the update will automatically start downloading. Apple has made update size much smaller as OTA updates are delta updates.

To install iOS 5 beta 5 using over the air software update, you must first erase all content and settings on your device by choosing Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. Over the air software update can be initiated on devices running iOS 5 beta 3 and later by choosing Settings > General > Software Update.

Be sure to backup your devices using iTunes 10.5 beta 4 or through iCloud backup prior to installing iOS 5 beta 5. After installing iOS 5 beta 5, you can restore your device using either iTunes 10.5 beta 5 or through your iCloud backup.

Apple has simplified much of it’s software offerings. First, with Mac OS X Lion install discs being scrapped and replaced with the Mac App Store, and now with the iOS betas. Apple is preparing to cut the chord as it switches to independent software downloads, moving away from discs or a computer.

iOS 5 beta 5 seems much more responsive and snappier than beta 4 but breaks compatibility with some apps which were working in beta 4. The final version is expected to be available as free download later this fall.

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