How (and why) to install macOS public beta versions

How (and why) to install macOS public beta versions

On August 18, 2025, Apple released macOS Tahoe 26 public beta 4, the next almost-done version of the upcoming iteration of its operating system for the company’s heavier hardware. Although such releases pretty much always make it to the news, for most users it’s just background buzz related to the chosen ecosystem. Some don’t care, others may be interested but can’t be bothered to look up the terms of joining the ranks of Apple beta testers. The process, though, is quite straightforward and takes literally a couple of minutes, depending on the speed of your internet connection. This piece describes it in detail, and gives you reasons to sign up — or not sign up — for the beta testing program.

How to enroll in the Apple beta testing program

As far as testing goes, Apple has the developer beta program, which is a paid membership deal designed for those wishing to fine-tune their products to the upcoming OS and ensure flawless compatibility, and the public Apple Beta Software Program, which is totally free and aimed at Apple enthusiasts and aficionados.

Joining is easy:

• Go to beta.apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID;
• Enroll your Mac in the public beta program by agreeing to the terms.

There are no special conditions or anything, save for the hardware requirements (your device should be capable of running the beta). You want in? Welcome! Moreover, the program is not just for Macs, it gives access to all Apple operating systems the company releases public betas for.

How to install a beta version of macOS, iOS, etc.

1. Back up your device. First things first. Before installing the public beta, back up your Mac (iPhone, iPad) using Time Machine or another backup method of choice so that nothing is lost if things go sideways. That “another method” can be looked up in the Backup & Restore section of the System Tools portion of the Mac Informer catalog.

2. Enable Beta updates. Go to System Settings → General → Software Update, click the i next to “Beta Updates,” select the available beta (macOS Tahoe 26 Public Beta, as of this writing) from the dropdown menu there, and click Done.

3. Download and install the OS. Now, the list of updates available to you will include the coveted beta version; click “Upgrade Now” to download and install it. Your Mac will restart to complete the installation.

4. Complete the installation. Once restarted, the system will ask you to log in, and present the Feedback Assistant app. This is where you, now a beta tester for Apple, will report any bugs or issues.

For iPhone and iPad the routine is similar. Future beta updates will arrive via the standard Software Update mechanism.

Why participate in the Apple beta testing program?

For a regular user, there are actually few perks associated with participating in the Apple Beta Software Program. It’s mostly about the following:

• The feeling of being part of a grand effort;
• The actual assistance rendered to the beloved brand;
• Early access to new features and interface changes (e.g., Liquid Glass design);
• Opportunity to test software compatibility and familiarize yourself with upcoming system changes before the official release.

Apple’s betas are typically stable, especially the 3rd or 4th iterations, but still bear the “experimental” label, which means possible bugs and glitches. Therefore, it is recommended to install them on non-critical devices, the machines your life and work don’t hinge on.