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Apple releases public beta version of newest OS X operating system

Mac users will get a chance to try out Apple's newest operating system starting today.

The new operating system, named Yosemite, was unveiled at last month's Worldwide Developers Conference. Developers have had access to the beta version since the June event, but only the first million people who registered will be able to access the public beta.

Blurring the lines with the company's mobile operating system, the newest version of OS X will allow iMessage messaging (including SMS texts this time), AirDrop file-sharing, and receiving and initiating phone calls. A "handoff" feature will allow iPhone, iPad and Mac users to automatically pass whatever they're doing from one device to another -- whether it be working on a presentation or composing an email.

"All in all, they come together for a gorgeous and more usable version of OS X, the best ever," Craig Federighi, senior vice president of software engineering, told developers in June.

For those who are not selected to participate in the public beta, don't worry -- the free Mac update will be available for all users this fall.

Read more on CNET

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