Apple issues macOS Big Sur 11.6.1 release candidate with security fixes

Apple on Thursday pushed out a release candidate for a new version of macOS Big Sur that was not previously tested externally in the usual beta rounds.

Release notes accompanying the beta version of macOS Big Sur 11.6.1 cite unnamed security improvements, suggesting the forthcoming update is designed to patch newly discovered holes in the operating system.

Apple earlier in September issued macOS Big Sur 11.6 with fixes for a pair of flaws that were actively exploited in the wild. Considering the late beta notice, today's release candidate likely addresses similar issues.

Apple does not provide a timeline on a public release.

Developers can access macOS 11.6.1 by downloading the appropriate configuration profile from the Apple Developer Center and conducting a system software update.

As usual, both AppleInsider and Apple suggest users avoid installation on primary devices, as beta versions might contain instabilities that could result in data loss. When installing on non-essential devices, it is also recommended that users back up important data.