CUPERTINO, Calif. — Apple’s upcoming MacOS 26 is already generating buzz, and the public beta is slated to arrive in July, offering eager Mac users a sneak peek before the official September launch.
MacOS 26 Public Beta: How to Get Early Access
Want to test drive the next generation of MacOS? Here’s how to join the public beta program.
- The public beta will be available in July through Apple’s Beta Software Program.
- Compatibility requires a Mac with Apple Silicon running MacOS 15 (generally models from 2020 onward).
- Backing up your data is crucial before installing any beta software.
- Feedback can be submitted directly to Apple via the Feedback Assistant app.
Once Apple releases the public beta of MacOS 26, you won’t need to go through the developer beta steps. Instead, you can enroll your Apple ID in Apple’s Beta Software Program and:
- Open System Settings > General > Software Update.
- Click “Beta Updates” and select “MacOS 26 Public Beta.”
- Follow the on-screen prompts to download and install.
After installation, you’ll receive automatic software updates to the latest public beta version of MacOS 26.
Which Macs Will Support MacOS 26?
A Mac with Apple Silicon (not Intel) running MacOS 15, typically those from 2020 and later, is required to run MacOS 26. Here’s a comprehensive list of compatible models:
- MacBook Air with Apple silicon (2020 and later)
- MacBook Pro with Apple silicon (2020 and later)
- MacBook Pro (16‑inch, 2019)
- MacBook Pro (13‑inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- iMac (2020 and later)
- Mac mini (2020 and later)
- Mac Studio (2022 and later)
- Mac Pro (2019 and later)
Compatibility Caveats for Sequoia Users
Some Macs from 2020 or earlier compatible with Sequoia won’t work with MacOS 26. The following models are affected:
- MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2020)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2018)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2019)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2019)
- iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2019)
- iMac Pro (2017)
- Mac mini (2018)
When Can We Expect the Final Release?
Apple released the developer beta series during WWDC 2025, with beta 3 (build 25A5306g) seeded on July 7, 2025. The public beta is anticipated to arrive in July, and the final, general release is scheduled for September.
Before You Install: Essential Preparations
Joining the Apple Beta program provides access to the latest beta versions of MacOS. Before downloading a beta version, remember these important steps:
- Back up your device and all personal information.
- Avoid installing beta software on your primary, everyday Mac, as it may contain bugs and glitches.
- Beta versions are designed for testing and providing feedback to help improve MacOS.
Sharing Your Feedback with Apple
Both the MacOS 26 public beta and the MacOS 26 developer beta include the built-in Feedback Assistant app. When you encounter an issue or something doesn’t function as expected, submit your feedback directly to Apple using the Feedback Assistant.
