Until they add features they want us to test and fix all the bugs we reported during the last test. They will have an announcement on when the next test is.
You can but you would only have the ships you have unlocked by opening packs. Your first choice of faction gives you lots of free stuff that your 2nd choice does not get.
Why is updating your OS annoying? You should always run the latest version so you are protected from exploits and bugs because the patches fix those things.