Apple released the sixth developer beta of macOS Golden Gate this week, bringing the upcoming Mac software update another step closer to its fall release.
The update introduces Apple’s biggest macOS redesign in years, along with a rebuilt Siri and new Apple Intelligence features across several built-in apps. Beta 6 arrives one week after the fifth developer beta.
Developers can install the release through System Settings > General > Software Update after enabling Beta Updates. A free Apple developer account is enough to access the developer beta.
Siri moves into Spotlight
Siri gets one of the biggest changes in Golden Gate. Apple is turning the assistant into a chatbot-style interface called Siri AI that can use general knowledge, personal information, and what’s currently on the screen to answer questions.
Siri is now integrated into Spotlight through a new Search or Ask interface, while a dedicated Siri app keeps a history of previous conversations.
On newer Macs, users can also customize Siri’s voice, including its pace and expressiveness.
Visual Intelligence is coming to the Mac as well. The feature, previously available on iPhone, lets Siri answer questions about content displayed on the screen.
Golden Gate also adds Write with Siri, which can generate text or provide feedback on existing writing.
Liquid Glass gets a broader redesign
Golden Gate changes the look of macOS across the system. Apple has adjusted Liquid Glass transparency to improve readability and added a slider that lets users control its level.
Windows now use different shadows to make the active window easier to distinguish from others. Toolbars have been standardized across apps, sidebars extend to the edges of windows, and window corners are slightly less rounded.
Apple has also simplified the menu bar by reducing the number of icons shown by default.
More Apple Intelligence features
Apple is adding AI tools to several of its built-in apps. Photos gains new editing capabilities, Safari can automatically organize open tabs, and Passwords can identify weak passwords and suggest replacements.
Image Playground is also getting a significant change. Apple’s image-generation app can now create more photorealistic images instead of focusing primarily on its earlier illustrated styles.
With developer beta 6 now available, Apple is continuing to refine the software ahead of its public release this fall.
