Apple Launches Mac OS X Yosemite Beta

Apple has released the beta version of its latest desktop operating system, Mac OS X Yosemite, to Mac users, marking the first time the Cupertino-based company has opened up a pre-release version to anyone other than developers.

Those wanting to download the beta must first register with Apple and have a Mac machine running the previous version – OS X Mavericks, with 2GB of RAM and 8GB of free disk space.

Mac OS X Yosemite Beta

Apple recommends that users install the beta on a secondary machine in case something goes wrong and advises them to backup their system. Users participating in the beta are requested to inform Apple of any errors using an in-built feedback system.

OS X Yosemite was first shown off at the company’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June and signals a move by Apple to bring the operating system closer in line with iOS. Yosemite introduces a new UI that mimics the flat aesthetics of the iPhone and iPad and includes a number of new features that enable all three devices to work more closely together.

iCloud Drive and AirDrop allow users to share documents between iOS and Mac OS X, while Macs, iPhones and iPads can now become aware of each other’s presence. A new feature called Handoff allows users to continue working on the same document or email on different devices by swiping up when prompted, while Macs can be used to make calls or send messages via a connected iPhone.

The full version of Yosemite should be available later this year as a free download via the Mac App Store.

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