OS X Yosemite: beware the beta

If you're considering downloading the Beta of Apple's OS X Yosemite, think twice. It's not that the operating system itself is weak in any way, but if you're an average user, you should not go rushing in to downloading this particular build at this particular time. The reasons you should avoid this Beta are simple.

At this time, OS X Yosemite's only public build is being sent out for developers specifically. If you're not a developer, the only strong reason for you to be downloading the build is if you're an Apple software addict – or if you just want to jam the fact that you have Yosemite in the faces of your friends, like a Sunny in Philadelphia character.

Those of you without a lot of spare time to fix issues and work with an operating system that doesn't always work with your average app-using schedule, we'd recommend shying away for now. Apple's OS X Yosemite is neat – you can see it in our OS X Yosemite Beta Preview – but it's not stable enough for the public right now.

Use caution, wait, and enjoy the OS you've got now. Yosemite will be released "This Fall" according to Apple – that'll be sooner than you think. Until then, we'll be keeping you informed on when more stable builds arrive and will let you know if it makes sense to jump in on a later Beta when stabilization comes.