When there is a BETA version of software available, what exactly does the term 'BETA' mean?

Question

For years now, I've seen BETA versions of software available.

And, I've never known what the difference is between the regular version & the BETA version.

I'm not just talking about different versions of yahoo. I see it with all sorts of programs.

Can anyone explain this to me?

Thanks!!

Answer 1

well beta version is for testing

when u use a beta version of a software .. if u get any error due to some fault in that program u can tell them ... they will clear it ..

soooo beta version is realeased to check whether there are any bugs in that software ..

after some months of testing they will release the software which will be free of bugs . ..

Answer 2

A beta is a test version of a product or program.



For instance, right now I am using the beta version of Windows Vista Service Pack 1. They release the product unofficially and allow whoever wants to be bothered to download it to have access to it. I am also using the new Firefox Beta. I install both and see how they work. If there were several problems and errors, then they would typically be automatically sent back to the developers to be analyzed and fixed, so that when the main version comes out, problems or things that people didn't like will have hopefully been fixed.



I guess a good metaphor would be that it's like taking a prototype car for a test drive, to see how it works and give feedback on what could be improved.

Answer 3

BETA means trial softwares. Meaning to say, they're just samples for you to try their software for a limited time only OR those are the softwares which are still under improvement; giving you the chance to test/ try it. Most regular softwares have no limit and the software might be a final release.



Hope this helps! :)

Answer 4

Software that has been released to a cross-section of typical users for testing before the commercial release of the package.



Generally speaking there not trials in the sense of that there gonna stop in 30 days, there a trial as in use it see what you think and if you like it get when it's released

Answer 5

I learned this one the hard way. It means it is a test. It has a lot of mistakes in it that they want you to find for them. You will be sorry.

Answer 6

latest version, to check if you like it or no. A feed back.