Apple's latest operating system update for Macs is finally available through a public beta. It's called macOS Mojave, unveiled alongside iOS 12 earlier this June.
The final, stable version arrives sometime this fall, likely in September or October, but some have been able to test it via early previews reserved for developers. Now, developer or not, anyone can get an early version of the OS.
What's New In macOS Mojave
It brings a lot of important updates in addition to much-needed tweaks. The first of which is Stacks, a new feature that'll instantly clean up the desktop by arranging files into categories. Another one is a true Dark Mode, which converts the entire system into a sleek, gorgeous black, not just the dock and menu bar. Finder gets the new Gallery View, which previews all sorts of files without invoking Quick Look. Screenshots get extra features such as screen recording and thumbnail previews.
There's also what Apple calls a time-shifting desktop picture, which is just a fancy way to say the wallpaper changes to match the time of day. Safari also gets new anti-tracking features, and Apple used that as an opportunity to throw shade at Facebook onstage.
Another notable update is the newly redesigned Mac App Store, which looks radically changed from the barebones look of yesteryear's storefront. macOS Mojave also gets desktop versions of iOS apps such as Stocks, Voice Memos, News, and most importantly, Home.
There are obviously a lot more upgrades and minor aesthetic changes than just those mentioned, but the important thing to note is that the OS is still in beta, meaning bugs are to be expected, and some apps might experience constant crashing.
How To Install macOS Mojave
To Install macOS Mojave, users must have any of the following Mac models:
• MacBook Pro — mid-2012 and newer.
• MacBook Air — mid-2012 and newer.
• MacBook — early 2015 and later.
• iMac — late 2012 or newer.
• iMac Pro — 2017 or newer.
• Mac Pro — late 2013 or newer, or mid-2010 and mid-2012 models with Metal capable GPU.
• Mac Mini — late 2012 or newer.
Engadget notes that crashes and hung pinwheels occur in the beta, so users should take extra caution if they're planning to install it on a main machine, which isn't a good idea. Those who have an extra compatible Mac lying around should use that instead of risking their daily driver.
Users must also be enrolled in Apple's Beta Software Program, after which they must also enroll each individual Mac they plan installing macOS Mojave on. Once that's taken care of, the update should then be available through the App Store. Once downloaded and installed, simply follow the prompts to get started.
Are you already using macOS Mojave? How's the experience so far? Feel free to sound off in the comments section below!
