Apple has confirmed that software updates will be faster on macOS Big Sur.
Right now, users are unable to use their MacBooks and iMacs when they update their operating system software, and for major releases like new macOS named update, this can take up to an hour.
That’s because both the preparation for the update and the update itself is performed on the boot drive, meaning users’ devices are inaccessible during the process.
Now, it appears that macOS Big Sur has changed the way users will update their devices, with Apple enabling faster updates by running part of the update process in the background.
Confirming the change to updates, the Apple website states: “Once macOS Big Sur is installed, software updates begin in the background and complete faster than before — so it’s easier than ever to keep your Mac up to date and secure.”
Although the company is yet to detail how software updates will be installed, we expect that this process will be similar to iOS. The system will begin preparing the update in the background, and then reboot the device when those files are ready to be installed.
If this is the case, the time to update a macOS operating system should be considerably shortened.
Another change coming to this year’s operating system is an anti-tampering mechanism, which Apple details: “macOS Big Sur introduces a cryptographically signed system volume that protects against malicious tampering.
“It also means that your Mac knows the exact layout of your system volume, allowing it to begin software updates in the background while you work.”
Developers are currently able to test macOS Big Sur, and a public beta is expected to follow later this month.
Apple should release macOS Big Sur to the public in September or October.
Are you looking forward to trying out macOS Big Sur? Do you think you’ll upgrade to the beta? Let us know your thoughts and check back soon for news and rumors, as and when we get them.