What is a Beta version ?

The term beta version was first used by IBM for their early hardware tests,
where the tests were done to check whether the hardware performed all of
the specified functions. The word beta comes from the second alphabet in the
Greek language. When a product is in development, it goes through several
stages. The first stage, or the alpha stage is when the product is tested
within the company and any problems are fixed at the company.
A product is usually given a beta version tag, when it is released either
free or at a reduced price to limited users. It has all the features but is
not yet ready for release or sale. The product usually still has a few bugs
in them. The company may collect feedback from the users at this time
about the product, what they would like changed, and details of any bugs
discovered by the users before the product is finally released.
There are two types of beta versions, a closed beta version, where
the product is given to a selected few to use and test, where the company
may directly contact the user for feedback, and an open beta version,
when the product is open for general public use, where feedback is usually
got through e-mail or a forum on the company’s website.
There is no specified time period for a product to be in the beta stage.
The beta stage may last from a few weeks to a few years. Some products don’t
even make it out of the beta stage.