How to Install XDM 9 on macOS

Check your Mac processor first

Native macOS support arrives with XDM 9, currently described by the upstream project as a pre-release. XDM 8's established Windows/Linux distribution should not be confused with this Mac-specific release.

Open Apple menu → About This Mac. If the hardware reports an Apple M-series chip, select the Apple silicon (arm64) DMG. If it reports an Intel processor, choose the Intel (x64) DMG. The filename alone is not enough: also check that the package is currently published and compatible with your macOS version.

Install the app from the DMG

1. Download the appropriate macOS disk image from a verified XDM project release.
2. Open the DMG in Finder and move the XDM application into Applications.
3. Eject the mounted disk image after copying has finished.
4. Launch XDM from Applications and complete any setup offered by the application.
5. Open the browser-integration setup and install the suitable extension for your browser.

Understand the first-launch warning

macOS Gatekeeper may ask for confirmation when you open a downloaded application. A warning should prompt you to verify the download source and software identity, not to turn off system-wide protection.

If you have verified the upstream release and macOS offers an exception for that exact app, follow Apple's supported Open Anyway procedure in System Settings → Privacy & Security. Avoid commands that remove security checks from unrelated applications.

• Check that the installer matches your processor.
• Keep macOS security updates enabled.
• Do not enter administrator credentials into unknown installers.

Connect and test the browser extension

Keep the desktop app open, then install the extension offered by the XDM browser setup flow or a verified extension listing. Test with a file you are authorized to download. On supported websites, the browser extension can forward eligible downloads to XDM.

If the browser shows no download handoff, check whether both components are running and whether the extension has permission on that site. A Mac firewall or privacy prompt may also need attention.

Know when to use stable software instead

A pre-release can include unfinished features and bugs. If your Mac relies on reliable unattended transfers for critical work, review reported XDM 9 issues and decide whether you want to use a test release now or postpone adoption.

• Back up your important links before testing.
• Report reproducible errors with the app version and macOS version.