At WWDC 2023, Apple announced macOS Sonoma. This is the latest version of macOS and includes new improvements and features. With this new version of the Mac operating system, Apple takes the Mac user experience to a whole new level.
The developer beta version of macOS Sonoma is already made available via the Apple Developer Program. A public beta version is also available for users to download. If you are planning to upgrade right away, know that it may come with some glitches. The macOS Sonoma problems in the beta version may range from download and installation problems to Mac running slow after the update. If your Mac model is compatible with this upgrade, the bugs and glitches can be resolved in an instant.
The exciting features that are added to this macOS update are:
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Incredible improvements to Safari
A host of features on Safari is introduced with this macOS update with major updates to Private Browsing. With macOS Sonoma, Safari users enjoy great protection when they are browsing the web. Users are protected from trackers and those with access to the user’s device.
There are also advanced tracking features that prevent websites from identifying the Internet user and monitoring their activities.
Furthermore, Safari now lets users stay organized by creating separate profiles for personal and work purposes. You can also sign into the same website with two different accounts. You can create web apps that behave like regular apps on your Mac.
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Game Mode
Game Mode offers an optimized gaming experience guaranteeing consistent frame rates. This is an in-built feature that lowers latency when connected to AirPods. Also, when connected to joysticks and external controllers, the input latency is reduced so gamers can enjoy an immersive experience. The Bluetooth sampling rate is doubled so that gaming enthusiasts do not experience latency while playing their favorite games.
Additionally, developers can leverage Metal 3 to bring a series of graphics-intensive titles to Mac, including World of Warcraft: Dragonflight, Disney Dreamlight Valley, Resident Evil Village: Winters’ Expansion, and more.
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Improved video conferencing features
Better video conferencing features are introduced by Apple with macOS Sonoma, and this allows users to share and present their work more efficiently. The advanced features work on FaceTime and third-party apps like Webex, Zoom, etc.
One such standout feature is Presenter Overlay. This feature is an effect that superimposes a user’s picture on top of the content that they are sharing so that the user is always in focus.
There are also reaction features added, allowing users to share their views and opinions by adding effects like hearts, confetti, or balloons. The reactions can also be triggered by using hand gestures.
Furthermore, the Screen Sharing picker is improved, and it streamlines the process of sharing entire applications during video calls.
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Interactive widgets
Widgets are one of the most popular features of macOS Sonoma. Previously, widgets were accessible through the notifications tab. Now, they can be placed on the desktop, so they are at your fingertips.
They even blend with the background wallpaper while you work so you are not distracted.
It is possible to place your iPhone widgets on your Mac using the Continuity feature. Also, these widgets are interactive, allowing you to accomplish so much, such as playing or pausing media, checking off reminders, controlling your home devices, etc.
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Predictive text
Dictation and keyboard leveraging speed recognition and Transformer language modes for better accuracy with predictive text and autocorrect. In macOS Sonoma, the keyboard has got a new autocorrect function, and this offers support for correcting grammatical errors and sharpening your texting habits.
Besides these, people with hearing impairments can easily connect their hearing devices to their Macs while watching a movie or attending a call. They can also type and let others know their thoughts during a conversation using the Live Text feature.
Should You Get Excited?
Whether or not you should get excited about macOS Sonoma depends on your individual preferences and needs. If you are a gamer, there are loads of reasons to be excited because Game Mode promises to heighten the immersive gaming experience on your Mac. Also, Safari updates mean a better browsing experience. Moreover, you can expect better video conferencing features to improve your video calls and meetings. You can add stickers and use presenter overlay so that the focus remains on you while moving across the room during a video call. And widgets are the primary focus of this macOS update. It makes all the apps and programs accessible with a click on the desktop.
The Bottom Line
So, there’s so much to get excited about with macOS Sonoma. If you cannot wait to try these features, you can install the public beta version. But beware that public beta versions come with their share of bugs and glitches.
