14 DAY TRIAL // iOS 7.1 Beta 2 is now available for testing if you have a Developer Account with Apple. The new seed, labeled as build 11D5115d, brings a number of welcome changes that end-users will undoubtedly appreciate.
People familiar with the software say that the Touch ID and Passcode Settings are now displayed more prominently, and there’s a new option to turn on button shapes, so you can get a better idea of where to tap.
The dark keyboard option has been removed (something that might not bode well with all iPhone users), and animations are now faster throughout (i.e. for unlocking the Home screen, opening a folder, etc.).
A bug affecting tones (set as default) is reportedly fixed, and the Calendar app is finally getting a much-deserved list view for all your activities. When used, the calendar view remains displayed, but compresses a but to make room for the list.
Control Center now features a bounce animation when the user swipes up from the bottom of the Home screen, and the audio slider now tells you which app is currently using / playing sound.
For developers, Apple mentions changes, fixes and known issues (that remain to be patched) relating to iOS SDK 7.1 Beta 2.
For instance, crash logs now appear in Diagnostics & Usage Data in Settings, and loading a large iTunes Match library should no longer lag while loading, according to a registered Apple developer.
The Cupertino giant tells developers to back up their test devices using iTunes 11.1.3 or via iCloud backup before installing iOS 7.1 Beta 2. Devices equipped with iOS 7.1 Beta 2 can be restored using either iTunes 11.1.3 or through iCloud backup.
As usual, the company warns non-developers that manage to get their hands on an unauthorized copy of iOS 7.1 Beta 2 that, “Attempting to install this version of iOS in an unauthorized manner could put your device in an unusable state, which could necessitate an out of warranty repair.”