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Apple releases seventh developer beta for macOS Monterey [u]

Apple has reached the seventh beta for macOS Monterey, in what could be one of the last builds before its release to end users.

The latest builds can be downloaded by developers in the beta-testing scheme via the Apple Developer Center, or as an over-the-air update for hardware already using earlier beta builds. A public beta version of the releases is expected to start arriving soon, and will be available through the Apple Beta Software Program website.

Round seven follows round six, which arrived on August 30, which itself followed the fifth from August 11. The fourth beta was on July 27, the third was on July 14, and the second was on June 28.

Due to the closeness to its expected release, there is every chance that Apple could provide a release candidate to testers in the near future. The final version is anticipated to be released this fall.

Among the changes anticipated in macOS Monterey are Universal Control, the introduction of Siri Shortcuts, Quick Note, AirPlay to Mac, and Focus. Changes are also anticipated in apps, including SharePlay for iMessage, tab organization in Safari, Live Text support in Photos, and FaceTime grid views and Spatial Audio support.

Both AppleInsider and Apple itself strongly advise users avoid install the betas on to "mission-critical" or primary devices, as there is the remote possibility of data loss or other issues. Instead, testers should install betas onto secondary or non-essential devices, and to make sure there are sufficient backups of important data before updating.

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].

Update: Apple has released a public beta version of the latest macOS Monterey build.