Apple has just released macOS Tahoe 26 public beta 5 hours after the release of developer beta 8, keeping pace with its weekly updates for both developer and public testers. With the final release expected next month, this update is likely focused on stability and last-minute refinements.
Should You Install the Beta?
Here’s the honest truth: betas can be unpredictable. One build might feel rock-solid, while the next could break a workflow you rely on daily. That’s why Apple itself recommends installing betas on a secondary device or partition, not your main workhorse Mac.
If you’re tempted to dive in, at the very least make sure you back up your Mac before upgrading. Think of this beta as a sneak peek, not a replacement for the stable macOS you depend on.
How to Install macOS Tahoe 26 Public Beta 5
If you’re ready to try it out, here’s the quick setup guide. But before proceeding, make sure your device is compatible with macOS 26.
- Enroll in Apple’s public beta program beta.apple.com
- Open System Settings
- Go to General > Software Update
- Click the ‘i’ icon next to Beta Updates
- From the dropdown, select macOS Tahoe 26 Public Beta
- Hit Done and wait for the update to download
Final Thoughts
This could be one of the last test builds before the official macOS Tahoe 26 launch. If you’re curious about what’s coming, it’s a fun way to get ahead — just remember, it’s still a beta, so tread carefully.
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