Apple releases updated OS X 10.8.3 beta, begins allowing developers access to new builds via Software Update feature

This could be useful.

Per AppleInsider, a little over one week after Apple seeded build 12D32 of its OS X 10.8.3 beta to developers, the company has rolled out another version of the software adding a new functionality that allows developers to download and install pre-release versions directly from Software Update in the Mac App Store.

Sources familiar with new beta, dubbed build “12D38”, have stated that the latest pre-release builds are now available through Software Update with a tool called “OS X Software Update Seed Configuration Utility,” allowing developers to access new builds in much the same way as consumers. When new seeds are made available, Apple will reportedly send out notifications to install the update via the Mac App Store, these people said. Email notices will also continue to be sent out.

As with the build released at the end of November, Apple is once again asking developers to focus on AirPlay, AirPort, Graphics and Game Center, but adds Safari into the mix with 12D38 without offering further explanation.

Known issues in the newest build mostly deal with graphics issues like blank or black screens when waking a machine from a sleep state, switching between applications or using VNC to remotely control a Mac.

If you’ve gotten your mitts on the latest OS X 10.8.3 beta and have any feedback to offer, please let us know in the comments.