Apple has released the GM build of iOS 9, alongside the first beta of iOS 9.1. GM stands for Golden Master and represents the final build in a beta software production cycle, matching the final version that has been released to the general public as a download on September 16.
iOS 9 GM arrives as build 13A340, while iOS 9.1 beta 1 arrives as build 13B5110e, both are available now as IPSW downloads though the iOS Developer Center for compatible iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch hardware. Additionally, public beta testers can get iOS 9.1 beta 1 through OTA directly on their devices.
Downloading iOS 9 GM Seed
Users running prior versions of iOS 9 developer betas can also choose to update to iOS 9 GM through the Software Update mechanism on their device. Presumably the iOS 9 GM build all also be released as an OTA download for users participating in the iOS 9 Public Beta program.
- Download iOS 9 IPSW here, or through “Settings” app
Yes, the iOS 9 GM build matches the final version of iOS 9 available now. IPSW for each device and version are found here, and on the developer center.
Downloading iOS 9.1 Beta 1
iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch users that are opted-in to participate in the iOS Public Beta also can install iOS 9.1 beta 1 right now through the Software Update mechanism on their devices through the Settings app.
This allows users to skip iOS 9 GM and go directly to the iOS 9.1 beta if they’re interested.
- You can get iOS 9.1 beta 1 at https://developer.apple.com/ios/download/
iOS 9.1 includes new emoji characters (like a middle finger) and likely other features, improvements, and bug fixes aimed at various devices. Some users are reporting that iOS 9.1 runs better on their hardware than existing iOS 9 GM build, indicating it may offer some performance benefits, though it’s wise to take anecdotal performance notes with a grain of salt.
For developers interested in installing iOS 9.1 beta 1, they will need to update using IPSW for the time being. Subsequent iOS 9.1 betas are likely to be available through over-the-air downloads.
It’s unclear what changes are included in iOS 9.1, though aside from feature refinements and bug fixes, it may also include features and elements that are aimed at the iPad Pro which is due for release later in the year.
Public Release Date of iOS 9 is September 16
As mentioned, iOS 9 final will be available to all other users on September 16 as a free download for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. Additionally, WatchOS 2.0 will be available for Apple Watch users on the same day.
iOS 9.1 does not have a known public release date, but given the first beta has just been released it will likely go through several revisions before being available to general users.
Apple has also released OS X El Capitan GM as a download to Mac users testing the beta release on desktop and laptop computers.