Problems with Safari v4.0 beta (just released today, 2/24/09)

I installed this new beta of Safari to check out the features. Installation replaces existing Safari software, but does also provide a "Safari4.0BetaUninstall.pkg" utility.

After installation and required restart, the system basically became corrupt. Though Safari 4.0b seemed functional as I was checking it out, launching Apple Mail resulted in persistent crashes and I was unable to access my email.

So... I ran the Safari uninstaller, which restored my previous Safari v3.2.1 which required another restart. UNFORTUNATELY this resulted in a restored Safari that would not launch, and Apple Mail remained unable to launch.

I decided to install a fresh copy of Safari by downloading the installer from Apple's website, but I couldn't use my restored copy of Safari to get onto the internet. It simply kept crashing. So I tried Firefox, and it crashed upon launch as well. Another restart, and finally I could get Firefox to load (*only* Firefox!) to get to Apple's site and download a new copy of the Safari v3.2.1 installer.

After RE-installing Safari, and another restart, I finally am back up and running. Things seem stable now, but of course I'm concerned about any other system instability.

My bottom line recommendation: DO NOT use Safari 4.0 beta at this point!