beta test

The final stage in the testing of new software before its commercial release, conducted by testers other than its developers.

A test of new or revised hardware or software that is performed by users at their facilities under normal operating conditions. Beta testing follows alpha testing. Vendors of packaged software often offer their customers the opportunity of beta testing new releases or versions, and the beta testing of elaborate products such as operating systems can take months. See beta version, alpha test and testing types.

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Second-phase test of a new computer system or program in a live operating environment. Beta testing helps to identify flaws in the system prior to a full-scale introduction. The first test, conducted by the system developer, outside the production environment, is called the alpha test; the second is called the beta test and requires participation by the user. If results are not good, a third test, the gamma test, is conducted.

The noun has one meaning:

Meaning #1: a second test of an experimental product (such as computer software) carried out by an outside organization