Apple seeds sixth macOS Sonoma developer beta

Apple releases new betas

Testers in Apple's developer beta program can now try out the sixth beta build of macOS Sonoma on their Macs and MacBooks.

Developers enrolled in the program can access the latest builds by either visiting the Apple Developer Center or updating their Macs to the newest beta software. For public users, beta versions are normally made available through the Apple Beta Software Program after the developer versions are released.

Sonoma so far is on a two-week cycle. This suggests that the new OS will ship in October, versus September for iOS 17 and derivatives.

The sixth beta follows the fifth from August 8, which itself arrived after the fourth from July 25.

The fifth build is number 23A5328b, replacing the previous one, build number 23A5312d.

The altrations in macOS Sonoma start with new screensavers resembling those of the Apple TV. The macOS versions have a smooth fade-away when turned off, with a superimposable clock available for the screensaver and the Mac lock screen.

Desktop widgets are also included, such as a picker dialog, automatic dimming and transparency, color changes to match wallpapers, and even the addition of iPhone widgets. A Presenter Overlay can help participants in video calls manage their Zoom presentation.

Apple also included changes affecting Safari, Messages, and for gaming with the addition of a Game Mode.

AppleInsider and Apple strongly suggest users don't install beta operating systems or other beta software on "mission-critical" or primary devices, as there is the small chance of issues that could result in the loss of data. Testers should instead use secondary or non-essential hardware and ensure they have sufficient backups of their critical data at all times.

Find any changes in the new betas? Reach out to us on Twitter at @AppleInsider or @Andrew_OSU, or send Andrew an email at [email protected].