How to Downgrade macOS 26 Beta in 3 Steps
Apple's recent release of macOS Tahoe 26 Developer Beta has introduced exciting new features, but beta versions can sometimes be unstable or incompatible with essential software.
If you're experiencing issues and want to restore macOS from Beta, downgrading is the solution. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to safely downgrade macOS 26 Beta without losing data.
Part 1. What to Do Before Downgrading macOS 26 Beta
Downgrading macOS 26 Beta involves wiping your Mac’s drive, meaning all data will be erased. To prevent permanent data loss, you must back up your files before proceeding. Here are some common ways to back up your data before downgrading:
- Back up Methods
- Detailed Steps
- Way 1. Time Machine Backup
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1. Connect an external drive with enough storage.
2. Open System Settings > General > Time Machine.
3. Select your drive and enable automatic backups.
- Way 2. iCloud Backup
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1. Ensure important files (Documents, Desktop, Photos) are synced to iCloud.
2. Go to System Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud and enable iCloud Drive.
- Way 3. Manual Backup to External Drive
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Copy essential files (documents, media, downloads) to an external SSD or USB drive.
- Way 4. Cloud Storage Services
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Use services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive to upload critical files.
Pro Tip:
Verify your backup before downgrading to ensure no files are missing.
How to Downgrade macOS 26 Beta Step by Step
Once your data is safely backed up via time machine or other methods, it’s time to go back to macOS Sequoia and uninstall the macOS 26 beta .Follow these steps:
Secure Download
Secure Download
Step 1: Download the macOS Sequoia Installer
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Open the App Store or Apple Support website, then search for the latest macOS version (e.g., macOS Sequoia).
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Click Download (the installer will save to your Applications folder).
Step 2: Prepare a Bootable USB Drive
- Connect a USB flash drive (minimum 32 GB) to your Mac.
- Rename the drive to "MyVolume" or other you want.
- Open Terminal and run the bootable installer command
Enter your MacBook login password when prompted.
sudo/Applications/Install\macOS\Sequoia.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia--volume/Volumes/MyVolume
Wait until you see the message: "Media now available at…"—keep the USB drive connected.
Step 3: Boot into Recovery Mode
Shut down your Mac and wait 10 seconds. And boot into recovery mode.
Step 4: Erase Your MacBook Drive
(Required because macOS Sequoia cannot be installed over macOS [Tachoe].)
- In Disk Utility, select Macintosh HD (left panel).
Click Erase > Erase Mac > Restart. Wait until the drive is fully erased.
Step 5: Activate Your Mac
- After rebooting, connect to Wi-Fi.
- Sign in with your Apple ID (used for macOS [Tachoe]).
- Once verified, close/exit the activation screen.
Step 6: Install macOS Sequoia Successfully
- Click the Apple logo (top menu) → Restart.
- Hold the power button until startup options appear and select your bootable USB drive.
Choose Install macOS Sequoia → follow on-screen instructions (language, setup, etc.).
Step 7. Restore User Data
After installation, you’ll be guided through the macOS setup process. When prompted:
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Choose "Transfer from a Time Machine backup" or another backup method you used earlier.
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Follow the instructions to restore apps, settings, and files from your backup.
Bonus Tip: How to Recover Data before Downgrading macOS 26 Beta
If you forgot to back up some files before downgrading, 4DDiG Mac Data Recovery can help retrieve lost documents, photos, and more.
Why Use 4DDiG Mac Data Recovery?
- Recovers files from formatted, corrupted, or erased drives.
- Supports APFS, HFS+, and exFAT file systems.
- User-friendly interface with deep scan technology.
Secure Download
Secure Download
Steps to Recover Data:
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Download and install the software on your Mac. Select the drive where data was lost.
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Scan and preview recoverable files.
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Restore them to a safe location.
Secure Download
Secure Download
Conclusion
Downgrading from macOS 26 Beta to a stable version is straightforward if you follow the right steps. Always back up your data first, then use macOS Recovery Mode to clean-install an older macOS version. If any files are missing, tools like 4DDiG Mac Data Recovery can help restore them. By taking these precautions, you can safely downgrade without losing important data.
FAQs about macOS Tahoe 26 Beta
Q1. How do I get the new macOS beta?
Go to Apple's Beta Software Program website > Sign in with your Apple ID > Click "Enroll your Mac" and follow the instructions.
Q2. Which Macs will get macOS Tahoe?
Compatible devices include:
- iMac (2020 and later)
- MacBook Air with Apple Silicon (2020 and later)
- MacBook Pro with Apple Silicon (2020 and later)
- MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019) & MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- Mac Mini (2020 and later)
- Mac Pro (2019 and later)
- Mac Studio (all models)
Q3. Is it safe to install macOS beta?
Installing macOS beta may cause system instability, app incompatibility, data loss, and difficult downgrading - avoid on primary devices.
Q4. How to download the macOS Tahoe 26 developer beta
- Check Compatibility – Ensure your Mac supports macOS Tahoe
- Back up your Mac to avoid data loss
- Sign in to Apple Developer Account: – Required for beta access. Go to Apple Developer, click Account (top-right), and log in.
- On your Mac, go to System Settings > General > Software Update.
Turn on Beta Updates and choose macOS Tahoe 26.
