We are getting closer to a point where I think it would be OK to install Mac OS Big Sur — version 11.  I have told you to avoid it since it came out in the Fall of 2020.  There is no reason to install a brand new operating system on day one or even in the first few months.   Therefore I have told you to stick with Mac OS 10.15 for a while.  This means however that you have to install the incremental patches or minor updates yourselves.  I have pledged to notify you whenever one comes out.  The last of these updates came out on Dec. 16, 2020. 

(Of course, some of you have older Macs which cannot update beyond OS 10.13, 10.14 or 10.15.  This message is not for you.)

Two days ago, Apple released Mac OS 11.2 which is the second significant update to the new operating system.   At the point when they release Mac OS 11.3 I think it would be fine — though no need to rush — to proceed with the “Big Sur” installation.  

At that point I think Big Sur would be fine if you are the “Joe and Jane Consumer” type that browses the internet, checks email, and uses Microsoft Office.  (Big Bold Print Emphasis) DO NOT INSTALL A MAJOR UPGRADE OF YOUR OPERATING SYSTEM WITHOUT HAVING A BACKUP OF YOUR COMPUTER.  MOST OF YOU SHOULD HAVE AN EXTERNAL HARD DRIVE PLUGGED IN MAKING REGULAR TIME MACHINE BACKUPS.  ALSO DO NOT INSTALL MAC OS 11 BIG SUR IF YOU ARE USING SPECIALIZED SOFTWARE INCLUDING WORK SOFTWARE THAT IS NOT YET COMPATIBLE. 

If you have specific questions about 3rd party software and its Big Sur compatibility ask me, ask your job, or check with the developer. 

The bottom line is — Mac OS Big Sur / mac OS 11 is going to be a fine compatible operating system for newer compatible Macs.   Just give it a little more time and you won’t have to avoid it any longer.   It will be ready for prime time.