OS X 10.10 Yosemite beta 5 brings design updates and more

Apple has released a fifth beta for OS X 10.10 Yosemite to developers, updating the operating system with various bug fixes, improved or redesigned apps and other new features.

Swift has been updated with easier scripting and updated ranges, while the transparency of the Calculator has been altered slightly. The top bar for System Preferences has also been given a mild makeover, as have the volume and brightness controls.

Mac users also now have the option of whether to display the full URL in Safari or a condensed version.

A revamped design, improvements to various core apps and other new features for OS X 10.10 Yosemite were introduced back in June at the WWDC 2014 conference.

The look of the new OS has focused on a translucent display and simplified icons, while iPhone and iPad users can look forward to the introduction of Continuity across devices. You can also accept incoming calls, make outgoing calls and display text messages from your phone to your Mac.

Other features set to be included in Yosemite when it is rolled out officially include a Today view notifications centre, revamped search functionality, iCloud drive, MailDrop and some welcome changes to Safari.

The update is available to download now for those with an Apple developer account.

Caroline Preece

Caroline has been writing about technology for more than a decade, switching between consumer smart home news and reviews and in-depth B2B industry coverage. In addition to her work for IT Pro and Cloud Pro, she has contributed to a number of titles including Expert Reviews, TechRadar, The Week and many more. She is currently the smart home editor across Future Publishing's homes titles.

You can get in touch with Caroline via email at caroline.preece@futurenet.com.