The forthcoming visionOS 1.1 version is included in this, as is the fourth beta. The most recent emoji characters, enhanced Persona, and support for mobile device management for business email and calendar are all included in the current edition.

The fifth beta versions of Apple's other non-iOS software updates have also been made available. This encompasses the HomePod 17.4 upgrade, tvOS 17.4, and macOS Sonoma 14.4. WatchOS 10.4 beta 5 has not yet surfaced.

Notably, iOS 17.4 was the only version of iOS upgraded by Apple from beta to release candidate. This could indicate that the Mac, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and HomePod updates will go out somewhat before the iPhone update. Since that the iPad is not subject to the same release pressure, iPadOS 17.4 might potentially be published separately.

Why was the release asynchronous? The EU's Digital Markets Act regulatory deadline influences Apple to some extent. Apple has until March 6th to comply with the new regulations, which permit software stores to operate alongside the software Store.