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Fission and beta versions of MacOS

Basic notes on beta OS versions

We recommend that users avoid beta versions of Apple’s operating systems. OS updates can contain breaking changes to the audio system, so to avoid causing issues, our products advise against running on pre-release versions of MacOS.

We vet each new operating system, making necessary changes and then releasing updates. This process takes time, and we maintain a useful Status page, which provides current information for all of our products. It includes a list of what versions of MacOS Fission is compatible with, as well as information on accessing any available test releases.

For further information on how we handle Apple’s beta OS releases, read on.

Notes on Apple’s releases of new OS versions

For many years, Apple has followed a familiar pattern when it comes to releasing new versions of MacOS. Apple first previews the new OS at the annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), usually held in early June. At this time, developers receive our first beta of the forthcoming operating system. A few weeks later, public betas are provided to volunteers in the general public, with additional updates coming over the next few months.

While it can be interesting to try the new OS during its beta period, it is generally wise to avoid updating your Mac until the official version. If you must run a beta OS, follow Apple’s advice to install a separate copy in its own APFS volume on your Mac. This will preserve your ability to use the current release of MacOS, as well as our software.

In the fall, the official version is released to the public. That major update is generally followed by multiple point updates, which are often the best time to update, as the OS finally becomes solid enough for mission-critical work.

Notes on Rogue Amoeba’s updates for new OS versions

Rogue Amoeba has our own annual pattern when it comes to supporting a new version of MacOS. When Apple first posts the new OS, we begin multiple months of work to support it. Later in the beta cycle, we make our first updates available as test releases, allowing users outside the company to try them.

We work diligently to provide official releases with support for the new OS prior to its official release by Apple, and we’ve been successful in meeting that goal for many years in a row. Still, we always advise caution in updating your Mac’s OS, particularly for mission-critical uses. Waiting until Apple has issued further refinements later in the fall is often the best course of action.