Last Updated on October 2, 2024 by Arnav Sharma
Apple’s macOS Sequoia is here, bringing a host of new features, performance improvements, and a fresh take on how macs integrate with other Apple devices like the iPhone and iPad. This latest macOS version, also known as macOS 15 Sequoia, has been crafted with a strong focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and seamless connectivity across Apple’s ecosystem. If you’re considering upgrading to macOS Sequoia, here’s everything you need to know about what’s new in Apple’s most recent operating system.
Apple Intelligence: AI-Powered Enhancements
The standout feature of macOS Sequoia is Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI tools integrated across the system. This includes a more advanced Siri, which can now understand context better and chain commands together. Additionally, the new Writing Tools help users refine text with suggestions for proofreading, rewriting, or summarizing content. However, these AI tools are only available on Macs with Apple silicon (M1, M2, and newer), so Intel-based Macs won’t benefit from these enhancements.
iPhone Mirroring
One of the most exciting new features is iPhone Mirroring, which allows users to view and control their iPhone directly from their Mac. This feature integrates iPhone apps into macOS, letting users interact with their iPhone apps using the Mac’s keyboard and mouse. While some security-sensitive apps like banking applications won’t work, this feature is highly useful for messaging, social media, and other everyday tasks.
Passwords App
The new Passwords app centralizes password management across all Apple devices, offering easy access to saved credentials, passkeys, and Wi-Fi passwords. It’s designed to sync seamlessly between devices and offers features like password strength checking. While it lacks some advanced features found in third-party password managers, it provides a user-friendly and secure solution.
Window Tiling
macOS Sequoia introduces native window tiling, a feature that allows users to easily arrange apps side-by-side or in corners by dragging windows to the screen edges. This makes multitasking more intuitive and accessible, without the need for third-party apps.
Video Conferencing Enhancements
Sequoia improves video calls by adding a presenter preview feature, allowing users to see what they’re about to share before they go live. Additionally, users can now choose from built-in backgrounds or upload custom images for use in FaceTime, Zoom, and other conferencing apps.
Safari Updates
Safari in macOS Sequoia brings a redesigned Reader mode with summaries and a table of contents for long articles. A new Highlights feature surfaces key information from web pages, improving the browsing experience. The update also improves video playback controls and introduces Distraction Control, which hides web page elements that users may find disruptive.
Maps, Notes, and More
Maps has been updated with detailed hiking routes, including topographic maps of all 63 U.S. national parks. Notes gains a live audio transcription feature and a built-in Math Notes option, which allows users to solve equations directly within the app. Other updates include collapsible sections for easier organization and the ability to highlight text in various colors.
Should You Upgrade to macOS Sequoia?
macOS 15 Sequoia may not be revolutionary, but it offers significant improvements to productivity, user experience, and AI integration. If you have a Mac with Apple silicon, the enhanced Apple Intelligence tools alone make it a worthy upgrade. However, users with Intel-based Macs won’t be able to take full advantage of all the new features, particularly the AI-powered ones.
FAQ:
Q: Is macOS 15 Sequoia compatible with Intel Macs?
Yes, Intel Macs can still run Sequoia, though the focus is increasingly shifting towards Apple Silicon.
Q: What can you expect in the beta of macOS Sequoia 15.1?
The beta of macOS Sequoia 15.1 includes privacy policy updates, new emoji or stickers, and improvements to screen mirroring and drag and drop functionality.
Q: What new app has been introduced with Apple’s latest software updates?
Apple has introduced a new passwords app that integrates seamlessly with iPhone and Mac.
Q: What improvements come with iOS 18?
iOS 18 brings updates like iPhone notifications enhancements, custom walking and hiking routes, and visionOS 2 integration.
Q: How does macOS Sequoia 15 improve multitasking?
macOS Sequoia 15 allows users to keep even more apps in view by dragging a window to the edge of the screen and arranging them into side-by-side tiles.
Q: What are the latest features for iPhone in the new iOS update?
The latest iOS update brings improvements to iPhone notifications, secure end-to-end encryption, and new emoji or stickers.
Q: What device is getting new screen mirroring features?
The iPhone 15 Pro Max now supports new screen mirroring features with macOS and iPadOS.
Q: What features are coming to Vision OS 2?
VisionOS 2 will include updates like access to system playback controls, better app integration, and more seamless drag and drop functionality.
Q: How will Sequoia improve productivity on Macs?
With macOS Sequoia, you can now simplify and accelerate your workflow with features like holding down the option key to unlock quick links to learn more about people and better window management.
Q: What is Apple’s strategy for Intel Macs in the future?
While Intel Macs are still supported, Apple’s new macOS releases are increasingly optimized for Apple Silicon, giving those devices better performance and features.
Q: How does macOS 15 Sequoia take advantage of Apple Silicon?
macOS 15 Sequoia is optimized for Apple Silicon, offering improved performance, enhanced power efficiency, and faster processing for tasks like app multitasking, screen mirroring, and the integration of apple intelligence features.