First Tests With Apple's New Messages Beta on Mac
Apple Releases Messages Beta: A Preview of Mountain Lion
Apple recently launched the beta version of its updated Mac chat application, known simply as Messages.
This release also serves as an initial look at features planned for the upcoming Mountain Lion operating system, scheduled for release later this summer.
Understanding the New Messages Application
The Messages application represents a significant evolution in Apple’s approach to instant messaging on macOS.
It’s designed to offer a more robust and feature-rich experience compared to its predecessor, iChat.
Key Considerations Before Installation
Before downloading and installing the Messages beta, several factors should be taken into account.
As a beta program, it may contain bugs or instabilities that could affect your overall system performance.
- Stability: Beta software is inherently less stable than fully released versions.
- Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with your existing macOS setup.
- Data Backup: It is strongly recommended to back up your data before installing any beta software.
Users should be aware that this is a pre-release version and may not function as expected.
However, for those eager to explore the future of messaging on Mac, the Messages beta provides a valuable opportunity to do so.
The application offers a glimpse into the innovations Apple is preparing to introduce with Mountain Lion.
Accessing and Downloading Messages
The Messages Beta application is obtained via direct download from the official Apple website, rather than through the conventional Mac App Store. Successful operation necessitates a Mac running OS Lion (version 10.7.3) or later, alongside a valid Apple ID.
Early developer previews of Mountain Lion indicated potential compatibility issues with certain older Mac models, such as the 2006 iMac, despite these machines meeting the OS Lion requirement.
Compatibility Considerations
Initial reports suggested that full functionality of the Messages application might be exclusively available within the Mountain Lion (OS 10.8) environment upon its official release.
This means users on older operating systems may experience limited or no access to the complete feature set.
The following are required for proper operation:
- OS Lion (10.7.3) or newer
- A valid Apple ID
It’s important to note that compatibility was a concern during the beta phase, and users with older hardware should verify functionality before relying on the application.
Seamless Integration with iOS
Upon downloading and installing Messages on your Mac, the existing iChat application will be superseded. However, your current contact list and iChat accounts will be preserved. A key benefit of Messages is its synchronization capability with your other Apple devices, enabling the transmission and receipt of unlimited free messages between them.
Compatibility with Other IM Services
Apple claims that Messages is compatible with various instant messaging clients, including AIM, Google Talk, Jabber, and Yahoo Messenger. However, testing revealed delivery failures when sending messages to users on Yahoo Messenger and Google Talk.
Furthermore, attempts to send SMS messages to individuals not using Apple products frequently resulted in error notifications, signified by a red exclamation point.
Synchronized Messaging Experience
When communicating with other Mac and iOS users, the experience closely mirrors that of using Messages on an iPhone. Instant messages are synchronized across all active devices. This allows you to initiate a conversation on your Mac at home and seamlessly continue it on your iPhone or iPod touch.
It can be somewhat disruptive to receive the same messages on both your Mac and a nearby iPhone. A temporary disabling option for cross-device synchronization would be a valuable addition.
Synchronization between devices offers a convenient way to stay connected, but requires careful consideration of potential interruptions.
The Messages application provides a unified platform for communication, though its performance with non-Apple services requires improvement.
Core Functionality of Messages
The Messages application shares significant similarities with both iChat and the Messages app found on iOS platforms. Users are able to transmit photos, videos, attachments, contact information, and location data without cost to other Messages users.
Initiating a new message mirrors the process in iChat; simply click the message icon located on the left side of the Messages interface, or utilize the Command+N keyboard shortcut. Then, input the recipient’s email address or phone number into the designated "To" field.
Accessing Contacts and Chat Options
Alternatively, the blue "+" button provides access to contacts stored within your Address Book and the Buddies list previously established in iChat. This streamlines the process of selecting recipients.
Detailed chatting capabilities for a specific user can be viewed by right- or Control-clicking their name in the left panel and selecting "Show Info" under the Profile section. This reveals options such as Chat, Inline images, Chat Rooms, Offline messaging, and File sending.
Video Chat and Screen Sharing
Messages leverages the FaceTime application to facilitate video calls, but this functionality is limited to communication with other Mac and iPhone users.
Apple advertises screen sharing compatibility with Mac, Jabber, Google Talk, and Bonjour users. However, testing revealed this feature to be unreliable, even among Mac users.
Customization Options
The application offers a range of user interface customization options. These include adjustments to font styles and sizes, alterations to message display formats (from bubbles to boxes), and control over message listing preferences.
Many of the user interface elements within Messages are configurable, allowing for a personalized experience.
Beta Status and Future Potential
Given that Messages is currently in its beta phase, some features may not function as expected initially. Nevertheless, the integration of SMS and enhanced iOS connectivity into the Mac environment represents a substantial advancement, and is a key aspect of the Mountain Lion update.
We encourage users who install and utilize Messages to share their experiences and feedback.
