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Apple releases iOS 11 preview. Here's what's new

The software improves several security features, such as nudging users to use two-factor authentication.
Written by Zack Whittaker, Contributor
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(Image: CNET/CBS Interactive)

Apple has flung open the doors to early birds for access to its latest iPhone and iPad software.

The long awaited iOS 11 update lands first as part of the company's public preview program. The Cupertino, Calif.-based tech giant released the update Monday, allowing the general public to test the software before its official debut later this year.

The software will be available from Apple's public preview site.

iOS 11 first look: What's new in Apple's public beta (gallery)

As is the case with other pre-release software, it's likely to have bugs and faults that won't be immediately fixable -- so, install at your own risk. And before you do, back up your data.

Apple unveiled iOS 11 at its Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) earlier this month. It lands with several design and productivity changes, although nothing as drastic as the visual overhaul in iOS 7. The company touted improvements to Siri, its voice activated assistant, and new additions, such as augmented reality support. And, the software will switch users to two-factor authentication, as part of the company's ongoing effort to improve device and account security.

Read more: Get ready for the coming iOS 11 'appocalypse' | iOS 11 has a big problem, and we're to blame for it | Apple leaks details of file manager app iOS 11 | With iOS 11, the iPad finally grows up | iOS 11 features Apple didn't have time to announce | CNET: How iOS 11 makes the iPad (mostly) better | iOS 11 public beta: What it does for the iPhone | PSA: Don't install the iOS 11 beta on your primary device | Here are the iOS 11 features Apple announced at WWDC 2017

Here's a selection of the things that are new:

iPhone unlocking:

Siri in action:

New and improved control center

Augmented reality

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