Apple releases Max OS X Lion developer preview via Mac App Store

We first got a sneak peak of the next version of Mac OS X, Lion, during Apple’s Back to the Mac live event in October. Now, after many months, we are getting closer to the official launch of Apple’s latest operating system, which set to go live this summer. So, in order to get members of Apple’s developer program ready, the company has launched the developer preview of Mac OS X Lion (10.7) through the Mac App Store.
Before you get too excited, keep in mind I mentioned that this was for members of Apple’s developer program. Therefore, you will need to know the redeem code in order to download the preview. In the meantime, you’ll have to settle for salivating over the additional features expected to be included in Lion which are:

• New version of Mail, with an elegant, widescreen layout inspired by the iPad; Conversations, which automatically groups related messages into one easy to read timeline; more powerful search; and support for Microsoft Exchange 2010;
• AirDrop, a remarkably simple way to copy files wirelessly from one Mac to another with no setup;
• Versions, which automatically saves successive versions of your document as you create it, and gives you an easy way to browse, edit and even revert to previous versions;
• Resume, which conveniently brings your apps back exactly how you left them when you restart your Mac or quit and relaunch an app;
• Auto Save, which automatically saves your documents as you work;
• the all new FileVault, that provides high performance full disk encryption for local and external drives, and the ability to wipe data from your Mac instantaneously; and
• Mac OS X Lion Server, which makes setting up a server easier than ever and adds support for managing Mac OS X Lion, iPhone®, iPad and iPod touch devices.
• Includes Mac App Store

Read more at Apple.
Brian’s Opinion
I’m a recent convert to the Mac religion after the purchase of my first Mac last year. That being said, this is my first experience of having to wait with bated breath for some new goodies that an OS upgrade will bring. While I’m sure many people are excited about the new version of Mail, I’m not a big fan of local mail clients so my interest resides around some of the new file and app management capabilities.
AirDrop, I have toa admit, encourages me to get another Mac in my house just so I can easily copy files from one computer to another. It’s pretty incredible to think this works with no setup. Hopefully, it is as seamless as they are making it out to be. The new Versions and Auto Save capabilities are a nice touch to enhance how files are managed since you will now be able to browse, edit and revert to previous versions of a document while not having to worry about losing your work because you forgot to save. I also like the fact that apps resume in the same state when re-opened with Lion. That’s pretty sweet.
Of course, I would be remiss not to say that some of the GUI changes that will make Mac OS X look more like iOS are very interesting. I’m looking forward to experiencing the auto-hiding scroll bars and an application launcher that displays an icon grid like in iOS.