Apple has unveiled macOS Sequoia, the latest version of its Mac operating system that is designed to push the boundaries of productivity, AI, and seamless integration in the ecosystem. Launched in September 2024, this new OS promises to enhance engagement by introducing advanced multitasking features and user-friendly apps.
From the brand-new Apple Intelligence—Apple’s answer to the growing demand for artificial intelligence—to enhanced privacy features, macOS Sequoia is packed with innovations. However, the Apple Intelligence features are not coming to the first version of macOS Sequoia. We will only see it working in the next version, which will come in October.
Everything about the new macOS Sequoia
Release date
macOS Sequoia will officially launch in the United States on September 16, 2024. There is no official release time yet, but Apple has asked users to keep checking for updates. Early access to macOS Sequoia has already been made available to developers in the form of Developer Betas, giving them a glimpse of what’s to come.
Key features
macOS Sequoia brings several new and improved features designed to enhance the user experience. Let’s take a closer look at what’s new.
Apple Intelligence
One of the most significant additions in Sequoia is Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI-powered tools integrated into the OS. Siri has been revamped to become more conversational and context-aware, allowing users to perform more complex queries and link commands in one flow.
Additionally, writing tools offer smart suggestions for editing, summarizing, and improving text. This will make it easier for content creators to refine their work without altering their personal style.
Improved privacy controls
Apple has reorganized the Privacy and Security settings, allowing for better navigation and control. This ensures that users can manage their data and permissions more efficiently, offering greater transparency in managing apps and services.
Enhanced apps
macOS Sequoia brings updates to several core apps:
- Maps now includes detailed topographic maps and trail information for all 63 US national parks, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- The Calculator app has been redesigned, aligning more closely with the iOS version and offering a more modern interface.
- Notes is more powerful with features like Math Notes (for solving equations within a note), Live Audio Transcription (for capturing spoken content), and Collapsible Sections (for easier organization).
iPhone Mirroring
This feature allows users to view and control their iPhone directly from their Mac. It’s particularly useful for responding to messages, checking apps, or even playing games with minimal lag. However, certain apps, like those for banking, may restrict access through mirroring for security reasons.
Game Mode
Apple is also focusing on gaming with the introduction of Game Mode, which doesn’t necessarily boost FPS but aims to deliver smoother performance and a more stable experience. More titles are also being optimized for macOS, further pushing the platform’s appeal to gamers.
Native Window Tiling
For the first time, Apple has introduced Native Window Tiling, enabling users to organize multiple windows easily by dragging them to the screen's edge. This multitasking feature has been a long time coming for macOS users and works similarly to third-party apps like Magnet or Rectangle.
Supported devices
macOS Sequoia will be available on the following devices:
- Mac (2019 and later)
- iMac Pro (2017 and later)
- Mac Studio (2022 and later)
- MacBook Air (2020 and later)
- Mac Mini (2018 and later)
- MacBook Pro (2018 and later)
- Mac Pro (2019 and later)
These devices are fully compatible with Sequoia OS, offering a smooth experience when using its new features.