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How to Download macOS Beta
Edited 6 months ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
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Apple's macOS is an advanced operating system that powers Mac computers. It is loved for its attractive user interface, great performance, and great integration with other Apple devices. From time to time, Apple releases beta versions of macOS so that developers and enthusiasts can test new features and improvements before the public release. If you want to be one of the first to explore and give feedback on the upcoming macOS, downloading macOS beta is the best way to do it. Here is a detailed guide on how to download macOS beta.
Understanding macOS beta
Before proceeding with the download process, it is important to understand what a beta version includes. A beta version of software is a pre-release version that is still in development. It is important to note that beta versions may contain some bugs or stability issues, as they are still being tested and improved. macOS beta is no different. Although it offers the latest features and changes, some functionalities may not work as expected.
There are two main types of macOS beta versions available:
- Developer Beta: This version is released exclusively for registered Apple developers who are enrolled in the Apple Developer Program.
- Public beta: This version is available to everyone who signs up for the Apple Beta Software Program. It's usually available after the developer beta and is generally more stable.
Now that you have a basic understanding of the macOS beta, let's move on to the steps to download it.
Step 1: Back up your data
Before you start downloading and installing any beta software, it is important to back up your data. This measure ensures that all your valuable information is safe if something goes wrong during the installation process. Here are some ways to back up your data:
- Time Machine: Time Machine is a built-in macOS feature that allows you to regularly back up your entire system. Connect an external hard drive to your Mac, open Time Machine preferences, and select your disk to backup.
- iCloud: Make sure your important documents, photos, and other data are synced with iCloud. You can view your iCloud settings in System Preferences.
- Third-party backup solutions: Consider using a third-party backup solution for additional backup options, such as Carbon Copy Cloner or SuperDuper!
Step 2: Enroll in the appropriate program
Depending on the type of beta you're interested in (developer or public), you'll need to enroll in the appropriate program. Here are the steps for each:
For developer beta
- Go to the Apple Developer website.
- Sign in with your Apple ID. If you haven't registered with the Apple Developer Program, you'll need to do so. This may cost a fee.
- Once signed in, go to the Downloads section to find the macOS Developer Beta.
- Download the macOS Developer Beta Access Utility from the website.
For public beta
- Visit the Apple Beta Software Program website.
- Sign in with your Apple ID. Create an account if you don't have one.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to enroll your Mac for the beta.
- Download the macOS Public Beta Access Utility from the website.
Step 3: Install the Beta Access Utility
Once you've downloaded the Beta Access Utility (for either the Developer Beta or the Public Beta), the next step is to install it. Here's how:
Find the macOS Beta Access Utility file you downloaded in your Downloads folder. It's usually a disk image file (.dmg).
- Double-click the .dmg file to open it.
- Inside, you will find a package file (.pkg). Double-click on the package file to start the installation process.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation of the Beta Access Utility.
Once the Beta Access Utility is installed, your Mac will check for software updates from the macOS Beta Program.
Step 4: Download and install the macOS beta
After installing the Beta Access Utility, your Mac will now recognize the macOS beta as an available update. Here's how to download and install it:
- Open your System Preferences from the Dock or from the Apple menu in the upper-left corner of the screen.
- Click on Software Update.
- Your Mac will check for available updates, and the macOS beta will appear.
- Click Update or Upgrade Now next to macOS Beta Update.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the macOS beta. This process may take some time depending on the size of the update and the speed of your internet connection.
Your Mac will restart to complete the installation process. Make sure your Mac is connected to power during installation.
Testing and feedback
After successfully installing the macOS beta, you can start exploring the new features and functionalities. Remember that by installing the beta, you are also expected to provide feedback to Apple. This feedback helps Apple identify and fix bugs before the final release.
Revert to stable version
If you're experiencing problems that are too troublesome, you can revert to a stable version of macOS. Here's how you can do it:
- Restore your Mac from a previously created Time Machine backup.
- Alternatively, perform a clean install of the stable macOS version using the bootable installer.
Always make sure you have a backup before rolling back your system.
Conclusion
macOS beta offers an exciting glimpse of future updates and features that Apple plans to release. By following this guide, you can safely download and install macOS beta, allowing you to experiment and provide valuable feedback. Always remember to back up your important data before proceeding with any beta installation, as beta versions can sometimes be unstable.
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