macOS 14.6 beta 2 released, What’s new and how to download it

macOS 14.6 Beta 2 is the latest iteration of Apple’s macOS Sonoma, and it has been making waves with its beta releases. The first beta version of macOS 14.6 Sonoma was seeded to developers on July 1, 2024, followed by the public beta 2 release on July 2, 2024. This marks a significant milestone in the development of Sonoma, which promises to bring a slew of new features, security fixes, and improvements to the table. Just like the release of macOS sequoia Beta 2 , apple continues to refine and polish the operating system, users can expect a more seamless and secure experience on their Mac devices. With the public beta 2 now available for download, users can get a sneak peek at what’s in store for the final release of macOS 14.6 Sonoma.

Why to stay up-to-date with the latest macOS versions:

Staying up-to-date with the latest macOS versions, such as macOS 14.6 Sonoma beta 2, is crucial for several reasons:

Security Enhancements:

Regular updates often include critical security patches and fixes.

Performance Improvements:

New versions typically bring performance optimizations and bug fixes, enhancing overall system stability.

Compatibility and Features:

Keeping macOS updated ensures compatibility with the latest applications and hardware advancements.

Access to New Features:

Each update introduces new features and functionalities that enhance user experience and productivity.

What’s New in macOS 14.6 Sonoma Beta 2:

Bugs fixes:

The macOS 14.6 Sonoma beta 2 release notes highlight a slew of bug fixes that aim to improve the overall user experience. Apple has addressed issues with [insert specific areas of the OS, e.g. Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth, etc.]. These fixes should provide a more stable and reliable experience for users.

Security Patches:

In addition to the resolved issues, the beta 2 release also includes security patches to protect against potential vulnerabilities. These patches are crucial in preventing hackers from exploiting weaknesses in the system. By installing the latest beta, users can ensure their Macs are better protected against cyber threats.

Performance Boosts and More:

But wait, there’s more! The new beta 2 release also brings some performance enhancements, because who doesn’t love a faster Mac? You’ll also get some new features and improvements to existing ones, because Apple loves to spoil us. Want to know the specifics? Check out the release notes for all the juicy details. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try installing the beta yourself (but don’t say we didn’t warn you).

Fixing Compatibility issues:

Compatibility with Existing Apps:

Apple emphasizes seamless compatibility with existing applications, encouraging developers to update their apps to leverage new features.

Developer Focus on API Changes:

Developers are urged to test their apps against API changes introduced in macOS 14.6 Sonoma Beta 2, ensuring smooth functionality.

Public and Developer Beta Testing:

The release includes both public and developer beta versions, allowing extensive testing across different user environments to iron out any compatibility issues.

Enhanced Stability and Performance:

macOS 14.6 Sonoma Beta 2 focuses on improving overall system stability and performance. Early reports from beta testers indicate smoother operation across various Mac devices

Summarizing macOS 14.6 Beta 2 release notes:

The macOS 14.6 beta resolves five issues, as outlined in the developer release notes . These issues affect various areas of the operating system, including:

ARKit: Fixed an issue where iPhone and iPad apps on Apple Silicon Macs would quit unexpectedly when initializing ARSkeletonDefinition.
Core Spotlight: Fixed an issue where iPhone and iPad apps on Apple Silicon Macs would quit unexpectedly when invoking -[CSSearchableItemAttributeSet setActionIdentifiers:].
Finder: Fixed an issue where Home Videos would unexpectedly sync as Music Videos to iPod nano (7th generation).
Video Subscriber Account: Fixed an issue where iPhone and iPad apps on Apple Silicon Macs would quit unexpectedly if VSOpenTVProviderSettingsURLString was referenced.
Video Toolbox: Fixed an issue with hardware decoder driver selection on Apple Silicon, ensuring artifact-free decoding of AVC (H.264) content at level 5.2 or lower, and handling of high frame rate content and 10-bit, 4:2:2, or 4:4:4 content.

MacOS 14.6 beta 2 compatible Macs:

macOS 14.6 Sonoma Beta 2 is compatible with a wide range of Mac devices, primarily focusing on models from 2018 and later. Users with older models may need to consider upgrading their hardware to take full advantage of the new features and improvements offered by macOS Sonoma.

Apple Silicon and Intel Chips: macOS Sonoma supports Macs with Apple silicon and Intel’s Xeon W and 8th-generation Coffee Lake/Amber Lake chips or later
Dropped Support: macOS Sonoma drops support for various models released in 2017, marking the end of support for Macs without Retina display and the 12-inch MacBook
Unofficial Installations: While not officially supported, macOS Sonoma can be installed on earlier models dating back to the 2008 MacBook Pro and 2007 iMac using patch tools such as OpenCore Legacy Patche

macOS Sonoma Beta 2 is compatible with a wide range of Mac devices, primarily focusing on models from 2018 and later. Users with older models may need to consider upgrading their hardware to take full advantage of the new features and improvements offered by macOS Sonoma.

Download and install macOS 14.6 Sonoma Beta 2:

To download and install macOS 14.6 Sonoma Beta 2, follow these steps:

Enroll in the Beta Program: If you haven’t already, enroll your Mac in the Apple Beta Software Program through the official Apple website or directly from the Mac App Store.

Check System Compatibility: Ensure your Mac meets the minimum requirements for macOS 14.6 Sonoma Beta 2, as specified in the release notes .

Backup Your Data: Before proceeding with the installation, it’s recommended to back up your important files and data to prevent any potential loss during the beta testing phase.

Download the Beta Profile: Obtain the macOS 14.6 Sonoma Beta 2 profile from the Apple Beta Software Program website or through third-party beta profile download sources.

Install macOS 14.6 Sonoma Beta 2: Once the beta profile is downloaded and installed on your Mac, navigate to System Preferences > Software Update. You should see macOS 14.6 Sonoma Beta 2 available for download. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.