The beta version of Apple's upcoming mobile operating system, iOS 10, is now available to the general public.
If you're thinking about trying it out before the final version is released this fall, you'll have to sign up for Apple's beta program, which will also provide Mac owners access to the public beta of macOS Sierra, also released today.
Though the developer preview is limited to those enrolled in the Apple Developer program, the iOS 10 beta is available to anyone with a compatible iOS device. Navigate to the beta website, log in with your Apple ID, accept the terms, and download a configuration file that will install iOS 10 on you gadget.
Be aware that beta software—even from Apple—means bugs and occasionally more serious headaches. If you have an older iPhone or iPod touch kicking around that you don't use for day-to-day activities, consider using that instead of your main iPhone.
That said, there are some compelling reasons why you might want to get a head start on using iOS 10's features, besides the ability to give Apple pre-release feedback.
Perhaps the biggest change is to Apple's Messages app, which gains the ability to send animations, invisible messages that only appear once tapped, and handwritten notes. There are also rich links for viewing videos and photos directly in the app, as well as emoji suggestions. Other notable app redesigns include a new Music app, which Apple is trying hard to position as an alternative to Spotify (something Spotify is understandably not too happy about).
For a more complete overview of new iOS 10 features, check out our recap of WWDC 2016. You'll also want to browse 9to5Mac's full list of the more than 50 new features available in iOS 10 beta 2, which is the version released for the public beta program today. Most of them are subtle, like a redesigned bounce effect when invoking Control Center, although Apple has also added a dedicated feedback app.
If you decide you want to switch back to iOS 9, you'll first have to erase the beta software, then re-install the latest shipping version of iOS, and finally restore your device from an iTunes backup.