Apple has made their new macOS software available to developers for a few weeks, and now the first public beta has been released, macOS Catalina Public Beta.
This is the first beta of macOS that has been released to Apple’s Public Beta testing program. In order to try out the software, you need to be a member of the program. You can find out more information about it over at Apple at the link below.
New Features in macOS Catalina
The new macOS Catalina software brings a wide range of new features to the Mac. One of the most significant changes is the replacement of iTunes with three new applications: Apple TV, Apple Music, and Apple Podcasts. This change aims to streamline media consumption and management on the Mac, making it easier for users to access their favorite content.
In addition to these new apps, macOS Catalina introduces updates to existing applications such as Photos, Safari, and Reminders. The Photos app now offers a more immersive and organized browsing experience, with improved machine learning to highlight your best shots. Safari has been enhanced with a new start page that uses Siri Suggestions to highlight frequently visited sites, bookmarks, iCloud Tabs, and more. The Reminders app has been completely redesigned with a new user interface and more powerful features, making it easier to create, organize, and track reminders.
Another notable feature is the introduction of Screen Time to macOS. Previously available only on iOS, Screen Time allows users to monitor and manage their device usage, set app limits, and schedule downtime. This feature is particularly useful for those looking to maintain a healthy balance between their digital and offline lives.
Compatibility and Performance Enhancements
macOS Catalina also brings several performance enhancements and compatibility updates. One of the most exciting additions is Sidecar, which allows users to extend their Mac’s display to an iPad. This feature is particularly beneficial for creative professionals who can use the iPad as a drawing tablet with Apple Pencil support, or for anyone who needs additional screen real estate.
Security has also been a major focus in macOS Catalina. The new operating system includes enhanced security features such as Gatekeeper, which ensures that all new apps you install have been checked for known security issues. Additionally, macOS Catalina runs in a dedicated read-only system volume, which helps prevent malicious software from overwriting critical operating system files.
For developers, macOS Catalina introduces new tools and technologies to help create more powerful and efficient applications. SwiftUI, a new user interface framework, allows developers to build better apps with less code. The new Mac Catalyst feature enables developers to easily bring their iPad apps to the Mac, expanding the app ecosystem and providing users with more options.
You can find out more information about this new public beta over at Apple’s website.
We are expecting Apple to release their new macOS software sometime this fall. Based on previous release patterns, it may land sometime in either September or October. This release will likely coincide with the launch of new Mac hardware, providing users with the latest software and hardware advancements from Apple.
Source Apple
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