Mac update OS X El Capitan available now

How do I download OS X El Capitan? That's the question we've heard many times since WWDC earlier this year. This morning Apple flipped the switch for OS X El Capitan, allowing users around the world to access their newest operating system. This version of OS X brings a revamp to a number of core apps – Maps and Spotlight in particular. Battery performance will be given a kick in the pants, as will processing performance. This update is all about refining and improving what was released with OS X Yosemite last year – and it's a solid update you'll be glad you initiated.

One of the key elements in this update is Metal. As we discussed when Metal for OS X was revealed, this is a software element that can bring far better battery performance to your device – "up to 40 percent better battery performance" as Apple's Craig Federighi suggested back at WWDC 2015.

See our full OS X El Capitan review for more info.

This update is like the "S" update for Yosemite, similar to how Apple releases a big change in smartphones every other year with a new number, then alternate years have that same number with an "S" after it. Instead of a whole new operating system, this is much more like an upgrade.

To download this update, simply click the Apple icon in the upper left-hand corner of your MacBook, Mac Pro, or iMac's display, and select "Software Update" from the pulldown menu. From there you should find at least one Update available to you – click the Update button and you'll be on your way.

Let us know if you run into any trouble, and speak up if you see anything you find particularly interesting about this new software suite.