The public beta for macOS Sequoia is now available, allowing users with compatible devices to try it out without needing a paid developer membership. Here’s how to get started.
First, ensure that you have a PC capable of running macOS Sequoia. The following models are compatible:
- iMac from 2019 or later
- iMac Pro from 2017 or later
- Mac Studio from 2022 or later
- Mac mini from 2018 or later
- Mac Pro from 2019 or later
- MacBook Air from 2020 or later
- MacBook Pro from 2018 or later
For MacBook Air, both the Intel-based 13-inch Retina model and the M1 model from 2020 are included. While older Intel-based models are supported on other devices, only models with M1 and later will have access to Apple Intelligence once it launches.
If you have an older or secondary device, it’s best to use it for the beta instead of your main PC. While the full release is nearing, unforeseen issues can arise with a beta version. If you don’t have a spare device, be sure to back up your Mac using the Time Machine utility before proceeding.
To sign up for the beta, visit the Apple Beta website and use your regular Apple ID to set up everything with just a few clicks, taking advantage of Apple’s seamless interconnectivity.
Next, enroll the device or devices where you wish to install the beta. A guide is available on the “Enroll Your Devices” tab of the Apple Beta website. For users running Ventura 13.4 or later, navigate to System Settings > General > Software Update and click the small “i” icon next to “Beta updates” to select the macOS beta for installation. Users on earlier macOS versions will need to install the macOS Beta Access Utility and follow its instructions.
If you set up the enrollment before the beta release, you’ll receive a notification when it’s time to download. Otherwise, it will appear in the Software Update window for installation just like any other OS update, making the process quite straightforward.
macOS Sequoia introduces several significant updates, such as iPhone Mirroring, window tiling, Safari enhancements, the new Passwords app, and more. While not all features may be included in the initial public beta release, they are expected to roll out in subsequent months. Additionally, Apple Intelligence features are planned to be integrated, though they may not be accessible until 2025 according to reports.
