Apple to launch public OS X Yosemite beta program tomorrow

Apple announced OS X Yosemite during its annual Worldwide Developers Conference last month. Since then, developers have had access to the operating system via closed beta but that's all set to change real soon.

Starting tomorrow (July 24), Apple is opening the beta up to the public. Those that pre-registered for the public beta will receive an e-mail on Thursday with a link to download the Yosemite build from the Mac App Store as well as an activation key.

Unlike developers, public beta users won't receive bi-weekly software updates. Instead, these users should only expect a handful of updates between now and when the OS officially launches this fall. When the official build is released, however, those using the public beta will also be updated to the final build meaning a wipe and reinstall won't be necessary.

As with any beta program, it's always a good idea to back up any mission-critical data beforehand. Apple also recommends installing OS X Yosemite on a secondary Mac if possible since it may contain errors or inaccuracies.

Additionally, the Cupertino-based company points out that some features require iOS 8 which is not being offered as part of the beta program.

Do note, however, that while this is a public beta, spots are limited and only the first million signups will get access. As of writing, it appears there are still some spots available but if you want in, you'd better act fast.

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Verizon launches Smart Rewards program, but there's a (privacy) catch

Verizon has unveiled a nationwide loyalty program for its subscribers in which customers can earn points in a number of different ways that can be exchanged for a variety of rewards. The Smart Rewards program will be available to customers with post-paid accounts starting July 24 but before you decide to sign up, there's one big catch that you need to be aware of.

Activities that accrue points include signing in to the My Verizon online account management tool, paying your monthly bill, choosing paperless billing and using the Verizon Trade In program, just to name a few.

Once points have been accumulated, they can be used for things like discounts on hotel rooms, car rentals or select products from Verizon's catalog. What's more, points can also be used to bid on items in auctions hosted on Verizon's website.

Here's the big catch: customers wishing to participate in the program will need to enroll in Verizon Selects, a targeted marketing program that uses location, web browsing and mobile application usage data to generate advertisements based on user interests.

We're told that you can expect at least 10,000 bonus points for signing up for the Verizon Selects program. Users can leave the program at any time and remain in the Smart Rewards program although sticking around will net additional monthly bonus points.

Would you be willing to opt-in to such a marketing program and have you location and data usage knowingly tracked in exchange for reward points?

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