beta version

American

noun

Computers.

the particular version of software or hardware that is used in a beta test.

beta version Scientific

The version of a software product that is used in the final stage of testing before it is commercially released. Testing of a beta version is generally conducted by an independent tester outside of the company developing the product.

Etymology

Origin of beta version

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The beta version aims to test the service gradually before it launches commercially later this year, T-Mobile said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 11, 2026

Many fans of Minecraft, which debuted in a beta version 15 years ago this week, enjoy the casual thrill of mining for rare resources and building fantastical houses.

From New York Times • May 17, 2024

The company plans to start offering a beta version of a combined Hulu and Disney+ app in December with a full launch in the spring, Iger said.

From Reuters • Nov. 8, 2023

The initial shock followed the release of last week’s test, or beta, version of iOS 17, the next major update of the iPhone’s operating software.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 15, 2023

So I went down and spoke to Doerr and Jim Clark, and I began using the beta version of the Mosaic browser.

From "The World Is Flat" by Thomas L. Friedman

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023