Following several rumors from credible sources claiming that Apple is preparing to launch a 15-inch MacBook Air in April, as well as the imminent release of Apple’s first silicon-based Mac Pro, Apple has released the macOS 13.3 release candidate to developers who are part of the Apple Developer Program. Apple will likely release the new update next week, possibly on Monday, March 27 or Tuesday, March 28.
The 13.3 update follows the general release of macOS Ventura 13.2 on Jan. 23, which included nearly two dozen security updates and support for physical FIDO-certified security keys. Apple released macOS Ventura 13.2.1 in mid-February with three more critical security fixes, including one for a WebKit vulnerability that could lead to arbitrary code execution.
macOS 13.3 beta: new features
New emoji: macOS 13.3 includes several new emojis, including a pink heart, a donkey, a shaking face, and a pod.
Home architecture upgrade: After being removed last December, macOS 13.3 marks the return of the Home app architecture upgrade, which will bring a faster experience.
Possible redesigned TV app: 9to5Mac reports that the beta includes a redesigned TV app to better align it with the version in iPadOS 15.2. The Mac version has a sidebar for navigation, but the redesigned app is not yet active in beta.
Bug fixes: Along with the new features, the macOS 13.3 release notes say the update includes a warning that pops up on Apple silicone MacBooks when an SD card is inserted, as well as several fixes related to the iWork apps, virtualization software, iCloud, Task Manager and more .
Security Updates: The 13.3 beta has also been used to push numerous Rapid Security Response updates as Apple continues to test the new method of delivering targeted security patches.
macOS 13.3 beta: how to install
If you don’t want to wait until next week to install the macOS 13.3 beta, you can get it on your Mac now by paying for a developer account or registering your Mac in the Apple Beta Software Program. Once registered, you install a new profile on your Mac that shows the latest beta version in the Software Update section in System Settings. After installing the beta, you will receive regular updates as they come in during the development process.
