Apple releases Mac OS X Mountain Lion

Apple has released the 'golden master' copy of Mac OS X Mountain Lion, aka version 10.8, into the hands of developers signalling that the operating system (OS) will soon be released to the public.

Apple has released the 'golden master' copy of Mac OS X Mountain Lion, aka version 10.8, into the hands of developers signalling that the operating system (OS) will soon be released to the public.

The golden master (GM) is a term developers use for the final version of the operating system (OS) before it is shipped to consumers. With the exception of any last-minute changes or updates it's typically the same version Apple will distribute to consumers.

Microsoft uses the term "release to manufacturing" (RTM) to identify when its operating system is at a similar stage -- ready to be handed over to manufacturers and installed on brand new computers before they go on sale.

Apple has yet to announce a firm date for the release of Mac OS X Mountain Lion but judging by its previous GM-to-release schedules, the OS should be available to consumers before the end of July.

The OS sports more than 200 new features, the most noticeable of which include the Notification Center, a universal Messages app, Dictation, Facebook integration, AirPlay Mirroring, Power Nap, Game Center and the Gatekeeper security feature.

Mac OS X Mountain Lion upgrade will be priced at $19.99 and available as a digital download from the Mac App Store.

http://www.apple.com/osx/