What to Expect from macOS Sequoia
New Features, Enhancements, and a Sneak Peek at the Beta
August 2024
PC Boss
What's New in macOS Sequoia?
iPhone Mirroring: One of the standout features of macOS Sequoia is iPhone Mirroring. This functionality allows users to control their locked iPhone directly from their Mac. Imagine being able to open and use iPhone apps, interact with notifications, and even drag and drop files between your iPhone and Mac seamlessly. This feature is a game-changer for productivity, making it easier to manage your digital life across devices.
Enhanced Window Tiling: Apple has introduced new options for window tiling, a feature designed to boost multitasking efficiency. Dragging a window to the edge of your display will now suggest a tiled location, making it easier to organize multiple apps on your screen. This feature brings macOS closer to the multitasking prowess seen in Windows, providing users with more flexibility and control over their workspace.
Passwords App: Security continues to be a top priority for Apple, and with macOS Sequoia, they are introducing a dedicated Passwords app. This app simplifies password management, giving users a secure and centralized place to store and manage their credentials. It’s a direct competitor to third-party password managers like 1Password and LastPass, and it’s built right into macOS.
Safari Enhancements: Safari gets smarter with macOS Sequoia. The browser can now summarize websites and surface key information, helping you find what you need faster. These enhancements aim to make browsing more efficient and tailored to your needs, giving Safari an edge over competitors like Chrome and Firefox.
Notes App Upgrades: Notes in macOS Sequoia is more powerful than ever. The app now supports live audio transcription and math equations, making it a versatile tool for both professionals and students. Whether you’re taking notes in a meeting or solving complex equations, Notes has you covered.
Apple Intelligence: The AI Boost
All the exciting Apple Intelligence features introduced in iOS 18 are making their way to macOS Sequoia, though they won’t be available until later in the beta testing process. These include:
Writing Tools: AI-powered tools for editing, proofreading, and summarizing text in apps, designed to enhance productivity and creativity.
Image Playground: Allows for AI-generated images from prompts, opening new creative possibilities for designers and content creators.
Custom Emojis (Genmoji): Create personalized emojis for any situation, adding a new layer of expression to your communications.
Enhanced Siri: Siri is getting smarter, with better understanding of on-screen content and improved functionality in apps. This makes Siri more intuitive and useful for everyday tasks.
Top 10 Q/A About macOS Sequoia
How can I get access to the macOS Sequoia beta?
Registered developers can opt-in to the macOS Sequoia beta through the Software Update section in System Settings, using an Apple ID associated with a developer account.
What devices are compatible with macOS Sequoia?
macOS Sequoia is expected to support most Macs released from 2017 onwards, though exact compatibility details will be confirmed upon release.
Will iPhone Mirroring work with older iPhones?
iPhone Mirroring is expected to work with devices running iOS 18, so ensure your iPhone is updated to take full advantage of this feature.
How does the new Passwords app compare to third-party options?
While the Passwords app integrates seamlessly with macOS, it may not offer all the advanced features of third-party managers. However, for most users, it provides sufficient functionality.
Are there any major design changes in macOS Sequoia?
While there are no major overhauls in design, the focus is on improving functionality and user experience with existing features.
Can Safari's new summarization feature work on all websites?
Safari’s summarization works on most text-heavy websites but may not be as effective on media-rich or highly interactive sites.
Will the new Notes features be available on older Macs?
Yes, as long as your Mac supports macOS Sequoia, you will have access to the new Notes features.
When will Apple Intelligence features be available?
These features are expected to roll out in later beta versions and will be included in the final release of macOS Sequoia.
Is the window tiling feature customizable?
While details are still emerging, it’s likely that Apple will offer some level of customization to suit different user preferences.
What’s the expected release date for macOS Sequoia?
The public release is anticipated later this fall, following the completion of the beta testing phase.
BOSS LEVEL TIP: How to Prepare for macOS Sequoia
As with any major OS update, it’s crucial to ensure your Mac is ready for the transition. Start by backing up your data using Time Machine or another reliable backup method. Additionally, review your current apps for compatibility with macOS Sequoia—especially if you rely on third-party software for work or personal projects. Keeping your apps updated and checking for any developer notes about macOS Sequoia compatibility can save you from potential headaches down the road.
Finally, consider joining the public beta if you’re eager to experience the new features ahead of time. Just remember, beta versions can be unstable, so it’s wise to install them on a secondary device if possible. Staying informed and prepared will help you make the most of what macOS Sequoia has to offer, while minimizing disruptions to your workflow.
Apple’s upcoming macOS Sequoia is generating significant buzz among developers and Mac enthusiasts alike. With the eighth beta now available to developers, excitement is building around the new features and improvements that Apple has packed into this release. If you’re curious about what macOS Sequoia has in store, how it compares to previous versions, and what these updates mean for you, keep reading. We’ll dive into everything you need to know Below.