To Beta Test, or not to Beta Test – THAT IS THE QUESTION!

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Over the years, I have tested pre-released software and had my share of ups and downs.

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As we all know, Apple has been releasing Beta (pre-released) software to the general public. While some people may find this to be a great idea, others (like myself) think that this is a very bad idea.

What ever side you’re on, here’s some things to keep in mind if you decide to take the plunge and test beta software.

1. You’re installing BETA software:
In the computer field, the term Beta means “TEST”. In essence, you’re testing a piece of software that could do the following:

Lock up your computer.
Delete some (or all) software and data files.
Have unexpected results with other programs (especially 3rd party ones).

2. With Beta software, you will NOT get any customer support.
Because of the software being a Beta, that means the company that made your computer does not have any information about it because the company that made the Beta is still adding and deleting features from the software.

3. Installing a Beta on a new computer may void any warranties on that system.
Here is where it can get tricky. Because of #2, it may also void any (or all) warranties on that computer.

4. The Beta may have to wipe your computer.
Betas can have experimental file systems, which means the file system may not be compatible with any of your files. Always make a backup of any important files before installing any Beta software.

5. You cannot go back to a previous version of the software.
Usually, once you install a Beta version of a current software, you normally cannot “unring the bell” without doing some major work on the device, such as re-formatting the device and starting from the beginning.

6. Do not install a Beta on a main computer.
As I said in options #2 and #3, anything can happen in a Beta. Always do the testing on a backup computer.

7. Always report any errors to the company.
Becoming a Beta tester means that the company that you’re testing for expects you to report any problems (i.e. errors) to them so they can look into the problem and fix any of them before a public release. Give the company as much information as possible, such as:

What you were doing at the time the error came up.
What the error said.
Type of computer you have.

Becoming a Beta tester should be taken seriously, because you’re, in essence, are helping to shape the future of that piece of software – and possibly the company as well.