WWDC 2024‘s keynote has wrapped up. The keynote brought the announcement of Apple Intelligence making its debut across the board and improvements to all of Apple’s OSes including Sequoia and iOS. This year, macOS Sequoia promises a range of features designed to empower users with improved multitasking capabilities, a more streamlined workflow, and a groundbreaking level of integration between iPhones and Macs.
Windows Tiling for Enhanced Organization
A major addition to macOS Sequoia is the introduction of windows tiling. Imagine dividing your Mac’s screen into specific sections, each displaying a different application window. This functionality allows users to create a customized workspace that caters to their individual needs. Whether you’re a designer juggling multiple creative tools, a researcher comparing documents side-by-side, or a multitasker managing communication channels, windows tiling has the potential to significantly enhance organization and streamline workflows. Imagine snapping your web browser to one half of the screen while your email client occupies the other, allowing you to effortlessly switch between tasks without minimizing or resizing windows.
Effortless iPhone Mirroring for Seamless Continuity
One of the most exciting features in macOS Sequoia is iPhone mirroring. This innovative functionality allows users to wirelessly display their iPhone’s screen directly onto their Mac. Imagine seamlessly transitioning ongoing tasks from your phone to your computer. You could be composing a text message on your iPhone and then effortlessly move it to your Mac for continued editing on a larger screen with a full-size keyboard. This level of seamless integration eliminates the need for cumbersome cable connections and opens doors for presentations and demonstrations. Imagine showcasing content directly from your iPhone on a projector connected to your Mac, eliminating the need for additional adapters or software.
A Smarter Safari Experience
Safari, Apple’s built-in web browser, receives an upgrade in macOS Sequoia. The introduction of “Highlights” utilizes machine learning to identify relevant information on a webpage while you browse. Imagine reading an article about a new restaurant and seeing a “Highlights” card offering directions and contact information displayed conveniently alongside the text. This eliminates the need to switch between apps or manually search for additional details. Additionally, Reader gets a redesign, offering functionalities like summaries and tables of contents for lengthy articles, making it easier to consume information on the go.
Beyond the Headlines: Minor Feature Enhancements
While windows tiling, iPhone mirroring, and Safari improvements take centre stage, macOS Sequoia offers additional enhancements. The built-in calculator app receives an update, introducing new tools like conversion options and a history function. Imagine easily converting between currencies or measurements without relying on third-party applications. Additionally, the Calendar app gains the ability to create, view, edit, and complete reminders directly within the Calendar interface. This streamlines task management and keeps all your scheduling needs centralized in one app. There are also Gaming enhancements that come with Sequoia that include easier porting of Mac games to iPad and iPhone. It’ll be exciting to see which games make the jump.
Apple Intelligence: Powering the Future
While the specific functionalities of Apple Intelligence, a suite of on-device and cloud-based intelligence features unveiled alongside macOS Sequoia, remain under development, its potential impact is significant. Imagine Siri’s capabilities being enhanced, leading to more natural conversations and improved contextual understanding. Additionally, background replacements in video conferencing are expected to leverage Apple Intelligence. Imagine blurring your background during a video call for a more professional presentation or even replacing it with a pre-selected image.