iOS 8 Beta 5: CloudKit Servies Restricted To Latest Update For Developers; OS X Yosemite, Too

Starting Tuesday, app developers who wish to use CloudKit services will have to download the latest available beta versions of iOS 8 and OS X Yosemite, according to Apple Insider.

The Cupertino-based company informed app developers Monday of the change, which means certain iCloud-based features will only be available for development in beta 5 or Developer Preview 5. These updates are needed specifically for CloudKit, iCloud Drive, iCloud Photo Library, Mail Drop, Safari History, and Call History services.

iOS 8 and Yosemite will allow developers to tie their apps into CloudKit for extensive cross-platform service.

iOS Beta 5 is the most current beta download available to developers, as beta 6 was only offered to select testing partners.

BGR reports that its sources have informed them that a Gold Master (GM) release date, however, is very close. Testing partners have until Sept. 5 to give the beta 6 - which has reportedly revealed new iPhone 6 screen resolution - release the thumbs-up.

"We are told that because we are so close to Apple's GM build (the final one, barring any huge problems), Apple has not seeded this to developers to test."

BGR notes that as long as there aren't major issues with the latest release, GM should be available in "the coming weeks" and that we won't be seeing any new beta downloads offered before then.

GM is the final version of iOS updates made available before the public gets its hands on the new mobile OS.

iOS 8 is expected to release Sept. 9 when Apple announces the iPhone 6 at a special event. OS X Yosemite is also likely to debut this fall, although the update's release date window is unknown.

iOS 8 is compatible for download on the iPhone 5S, iPhone 5, iPhone 5C, iPhone 4S, iPod touch fifth-gen, iPad 2, iPad Air, iPad mini with Retina Display, iPad mini, iPad 4, and iPad 3.