Apple OS X Yosemite Public Beta Released: How To Download The Upcoming Mac Operating System

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) launched the public beta of its upcoming Mac operating system, OS X Yosemite, giving Mac users a test drive of new features of the OS.

The Cupertino, Calif., tech opened the download gates to the public on Thursday as preview of what to expect this fall in OS X Yosemite. Those that already signed up for OS X Yosemite should receive an e-mail sometime on Thursday with instructions on how to download the OS X Yosemite beta OS.

But those who haven’t signed up for the OS X public beta yet can download the software using the following instructions.

Note: International Business Times is not responsible for any damage caused with the installation of any software. Be sure to backup all vital data before proceeding at your own risk.

1. Visit Apple’s OS X Yosemite Beta website and sign up for the program using your Apple ID.

2. If you’re already signed up for the program, you can also sign in as well.

3. Click “Get started with OS X Yosemite Beta.”

4. Read and accept the terms of service for the OS X Yosemite Beta program.

5. A page will then appear in your browser with more information about OS X Yosemite.

6. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click the blue button, which will launch the App Store and redeem the code on your OS X desktop or notebook.

High traffic to the Apple website may cause the page to not load; if that occurs, check back later to download OS X Yosemite.

Apple does stress that OS X Yosemite is a beta version that has various issues. OS X Yosemite beta users are encouraged to provide feedback using the Feedback Assistant app provided with the OS.

OSX Yosemite contains a number of new features including a redesigned interface, improved messaging, iCloud Drive storage and several continuity features such as handoff and integration with iPhones and iPads running iOS 8.

App developers looking to produce software for OS X Yosemite can also download XCode 6 Beta, which also includes the Swift programming language.

The full version of OS X Yosemite is expected to be released sometime in October alongside the rumored iWatch. Apple is also expected to announce the 4.7-inch iPhone 6 in mid-September along with iOS 8.