Apple today released the first beta of macOS Ventura 13.1 to its public beta testing group, allowing non-developers to try out the new features before the software is released. The public beta comes a day after Apple released the beta to developers.

macos ventura summary header
Public beta testers can download the macOS 13.1 Ventura update from the Software Update section of the System Preferences app after installing the appropriate profile from Apple’s beta software website.

‌macOS Ventura‌ 13.1 introduces the Freeform app, which Apple designed for creative collaboration. The app can be used for brainstorming, idea planning, note taking, etc. Users can insert drawings, sticky notes, shapes, text boxes, photos, videos, PDFs, links, and other documents, with Freeform serving as a blank canvas.

Free-form “boards” can be shared with others and discussed over FaceTime, with updates from all participants synced to everyone in real time.

The update also introduces support for an updated Home app architecture that improves the performance of smart home devices.

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