Apple has released macOS Big Sur 11.6.1 beta to developers. The update is available two weeks after the final version of macOS 11.6 was released to all users.
macOS Big Sur 11.6.1 beta is available as an over-the-air update to developers, who had already enrolled their Macs in Apple’s developer beta testing program. Strangely, this update is not available for download in Apple Developer Center, at the time of writing.
According to Apple’s release notes, this update only contains security fixes, however, the details of the fixes have not been disclosed yet. Apple usually just releases such updates with security fixes, rather than seed them as a beta first, so this is not a usual release.
Does your Mac support macOS Big Sur 11.6.1 beta?
macOS Big Sur 11.6 beta is compatible with the following Macs:
- MacBook Air (2013 and newer)
- MacBook Pro (late 2013 and newer)
- MacBook (2015 and newer)
- iMac (2014 and newer)
- iMac Pro (2017 and newer)
- Mac mini (2014 and newer)
- Mac Pro (2013 and newer)
How to upgrade to macOS Big Sur 11.6.1 beta?
To download and install macOS Big Sur 11.6.1 beta, your Mac must be enrolled in Apple’s beta program. This will be done by installing a beta profile using a utility that is downloaded from Apple Developer Center ($99/year). Once you download and install the utility, go to System Preferences > Software Update to download and install the new update. If you are using a portable Mac, make sure that it is connected to a power outlet throughout the update process.
Apple’s next major update, macOS Monterey, is currently in beta testing and is expected to release to all users this fall. Here are the new features that you can expect to use when the update drops:
- New Safari design and tab groups
- Focus and notifications improvements
- Shortcuts app
- Notes
- AirPlay to Mac
- Live Text
- FaceTime improvements and SharePlay
- Shared with You
- Low Power Mode
- iCloud Private Relay
- iCloud password manager in settings
- M1 app improvements
- Spatial audio support for AirPods Pro and AirPods Max (M1 Macs only)
