Apple sent me an invitation to participate in their latest public software betas. I was a bit surprised as I let my Apple Developer membership lapse some time ago. And I’m not one to install beta software from anyone, especially something as important as an operating system. I tried to run beta software from Apple, Microsoft, and a few Linux distributions, and every time I tried it turned out poorly to near disastrous. Running a beta OS isn’t the same as running beta application software. Application software can usually be installed in parallel with an existing release, allowing me to compare and contrast and actually send in bug reports. I’ve had it beaten into me not to run an OS beta unless it’s in a virtual machine. Even virtually it isn’t all that useful, at least not to me.

The offer is tempting, but I’ve learned the hard way to turn away from such temptation.