Apple has launched macOS High Sierra public beta, and you can download and try out all the new features right now. This is a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
Firstly, unlike general release, not everyone can download macOS High Sierra public beta. Although it says “public” in the title, it’s only available to those who sign up for the program. So that’s where you need to start.
- Head over to Apple Beta Software Program page, and sign up.
- Click on “Get Started” and download the macOS High Sierra public beta access utility *.dmg file.
- Run the installer once the download finishes.
- At the end of installation your Mac App Store will open. Navigate to the “Updates” tab, and click on the “Update” option.
- If you don’t see an option to update, simply restart your Mac and come back to this screen. You should now have the option to update.
- Download the update. Depending on your internet speed, it can take anywhere from an hour to 6-8 hours. It is advised that you keep the Mac connected to a power outlet the entire time.
- Once the download is done, your system will restart.
- After the restart, High Sierra installer will open automatically. If not, you can launch it manually by going to the Applications folder and locating the downloaded file.
- Follow the on-screen instructions of the installer.
- Agree to the Terms and Conditions, and provide the administrator password as and when needed.
- Your Mac is likely to restart at least a couple of times during the install. Once the entire process is done, and the system has restarted for a final time, your system will now be running the beta.
A word of caution
macOS High Sierra public beta shouldn’t be installed on your main Mac. It’s a work in progress and is liable to malfunction spectacularly. You risk losing your data and exposing yourself to various malware from the internet. We suggest you only install the beta on a spare Mac.