14 DAY TRIAL // Apple is launching Mac OS X 10.7 GM1 soon, according to unnamed sources that are allegedly familiar with Apple’s plans. Considered a the initial Release Candidate (RC1) of OS X Lion, Mac OS X 10.7 GM1 is expected to be superseded by at least another GM release before the OS hits Final status.
TechCrunch claims to have learned that Cupertino is preparing to roll out a Lion update to developers that may name GM1.
Typically, GM status (Golden Master) means the software is almost ready, with minor bugs being the only thing delaying a final release.
And while most companies dealing with software use RC (Release Candidate) designations for releases that are close to the Final build, Apple likes to ‘think different’.
Reportedly, this Lion update is “only the initial Golden Master candidate”, which means it will be followed by at least one more GM seed.
Developers enrolled with Apple’s $99-a-year program have been able to download and play with a preview build of OS X Lion since February 24.
According to the company headquartered at 1 Infinite Loop, Cupertino, California, Lion takes some of the best ideas from iPad and brings them back to the Mac.
Lion is the eighth major release of what Apple calls “the world’s most advanced operating system,” with major new features like Mission Control, Launchpad, full screen apps, new Multi-Touch gestures, and tons more.
For a quick overview of Lion’s most important new additions, check out our Mac OS X 10.7 Lion Features index.
The new OS is scheduled to debut this summer, Apple has confirmed on multiple occasions.
It is most likely that Lion will be ceremoniously launched at Apple’s annual developer convention WWDC 2011 which should take place in early June, according to reports.
In other words, Lion might see an early-summer release, which spells great news for avid fans of Apple’ desktop operating system.