Able to download the beta update but when it gets to final 10 minutes of preparing the computer I get error message "Failed to prepare the software update. Please try again." Have tried about 20 times so far and have re-installed Monterey but can't get past this error. Any ideas please?
Try Again Later or Check the Full Installer Apple’s servers may be overloaded due to a large number of users trying to update their Macs at the same time. As you already know, slow downloads can corrupt the update installer. One way to deal with this issue is to simply try again later. Alternatively, navigate to your Applications folder, locate and select the Install macOS [12].appand check if you have the full installer. For example, if you’re trying to install Big Sur, look for Install macOS Big Sur.app.
Free up Some Space This error message may also indicate that your Mac doesn’t have enough space to save the update files. Remove all the files and apps you no longer need or back up your data to an external hard drive. Turn off your Mac and press and hold the Optionbutton before turning the device back on. In just a few seconds, the Startup Manager should display two options: Select Mac HD and Log Into Your Wifi. Follow the on-screen instructions, and log back to the Home Screen. Delete or back up your data and check if you can update your Mac.
Reinstall macOS
Contact apple support if this does not work.
Thanks for the response. Without warning the computer updated to the beta 3 by itself a few days ago. I suddenly got the message that it would restart in 1 minute to install the update! Have since downloaded and installed the next beta so maybe it fixed itself.