Apple has consistently pushed the limits with each iteration of its operating system, and Sequoia is no exception. I was thrilled to dive into the latest macOS Sequoia (Beta) update, and here are my initial thoughts and experiences with the standout features in this update.
A Seamless Experience Between iPhone and Mac
One of the most impressive features in macOS Sequoia is iPhone Mirroring. This functionality allows me to view and control my iPhone directly from my Mac without having to physically reach for my phone.
The iPhone Mirroring app, conveniently located in the Dock, provides full interaction with my iPhone apps using my Mac’s keyboard, trackpad, or mouse. The best part? My iPhone remains locked, ensuring privacy and security. I can easily transfer notes and pictures directly from my phone to my laptop while I am doing work. It has greatly improved my productivity!
In addition to mirroring, iPhone notifications now appear alongside my Mac notifications. This integration makes it easier to manage alerts, and I can even launch apps directly from the notifications using iPhone Mirroring. It’s a true game-changer for those of us who juggle multiple devices throughout the day.
Boosting Productivity with Smart Window Management
Another feature that caught my attention is Easy Window Tiling. Dragging windows to the screen’s edge automatically arranges them into side-by-side tiles or places them in corners, maximizing the view of multiple apps.
Tiling with keyboard shortcuts adds to the convenience, allowing me to quickly position windows with a few keystrokes. Holding down the Option key while dragging a window previews all available tiling options, making multitasking smoother and more intuitive.
Enhanced Video Calling Features
I was sharing with my best friend the new watches that I was interested in, and as frequent video callers, the Presenter Preview feature has been really useful. Before sharing my screen or a specific app in a video call, I can see exactly what others will view.
This pre-sharing preview minimizes the chances of me showing the wrong content or encountering embarrassing mishaps.
Secure and Accessible Credential Management
The new Passwords app in macOS Sequoia centralizes all my credentials with secure end-to-end encryption. It’s incredibly useful for filtering and sorting accounts, whether by creation date, credential type, or shared group.
I can also find out which passwords are compromised and take action to make my accounts even more secure. The app also integrates seamlessly across Mac, iPhone, iPad, and even Windows via the iCloud for Windows app. With automatic syncing and AutoFill, managing and accessing my passwords has never been easier.
Smoother Gaming
Mac users who enjoy gaming will appreciate the updates that take full advantage of Metal 3 and Apple silicon. Games and apps that use Metal 3 can render high-resolution graphics in less time, and minimise loading.
I thoroughly enjoyed playing Resident Evil 7 Biohazard, as it delivered smooth frame rates and high-quality visuals, enhancing my gaming experience on Mac. Check out my gaming clip!
More Powerful Notes
In the Notes app, collapsible sections help manage lengthy notes, and the new highlighting feature makes it easier to emphasize important text.
The new Maths Notes feature brings scientific calculator capabilities directly into my notes. I can assign variables, solve equations, and adjust variables to see real-time results.
This is perfect for anyone who needs to crunch numbers on the fly.
Compatibility
macOS Sequoia is compatible with a wide range of devices, including:
● iMac (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)
Final Thoughts
Unfortunately, I was unable to test out the Apple Intelligence beta features as it is only available in the US (Eng) for now. I am eagerly awaiting its release in Singapore.
The macOS Sequoia (Beta) update is shaping up to be a significant enhancement to the Mac ecosystem. With features designed to boost productivity, enhance connectivity between devices, and provide robust security, Sequoia is setting a new standard for operating systems. I can’t wait to explore more of what this update has to offer as it moves closer to its full release.
