Apple's macOS Ventura now available to public beta testers

Apple has released the first public beta version of its upcoming macOS Ventura software update, marking the first time non-developers can test it.

The first macOS Ventura public beta is likely to be identical in form to the third developer beta, which was provided on Wednesday, July 6. Users can download the public beta from the Apple Beta Software Program portal.

The macOS Ventura public beta carries a build number of 22A5295i.

New features in macOS Ventura include the ability to use an iPhone as a webcam, a new Stage Manager feature that will make it easier to handle open windows, and improvements to core features like Mail and security.

Apple announced macOS Ventura alongside its other software updates back at WWDC, and provided the first developer beta shortly after. It should roll out as a free update to all users in the fall.

Both AppleInsider and Apple strongly suggest users avoid installing betas on to "mission-critical" or primary devices, due to the potential for data loss or other issues. Instead, the recommendation is to install betas onto secondary or non-essential devices, and to ensure there are sufficient backups of important data before making any major changes.