A "beta version" refers to a pre-release version of software that is made available to a limited audience for testing purposes. This stage follows the alpha version, where initial development is completed but may still contain bugs or incomplete features. Beta testing allows developers to gather feedback and identify issues before the final release. During the beta phase, users can explore the software and report any problems or suggestions for improvement. This collaborative process helps ensure that the final product, often referred to as the release version, is more stable and user-friendly, ultimately enhancing the overall user experience.