macOS Sonoma brings with performance improvements, Game Mode for Mac, enhanced privacy features, and more!

Apple launched macOS 14 Sonoma at WWDC2023, emphasizing its performance improvements and alignment with iOS 17. Sonoma introduces new screensavers with slow-motion videos (moving aerial) showcasing global locations like Hong Kong, Monument Valley, and Sonoma itself. The widgets in macOS Sonoma have been updated to provide glanceable information without intruding on the user's workflow, seamlessly fading into the background while using apps. Additionally, the new Presenter Overlay feature enhances remote presentations by allowing presenters to overlay themselves on the slides they're showing, creating a more engaging experience.

Safari, Apple's web browser, also got a few updates in macOS Sonoma. It includes enhanced privacy features such as improved password functions and expanded Private Browsing, which effectively blocks trackers and removes tracking from URLs. Users can securely share passwords and passkeys with close contacts through iCloud Keychain, ensuring end-to-end encryption. Safari also implemented different user profiles to separate work and personal browsing activities. This feature allows for independent management of cookies, history, extensions, tab groups, and favorites. Alongside these improvements, Apple announced updates to WebKit, including support for vibration controllers, external webcams on iPad Safari, and AVIF support for older macOS versions.

Apple has also introduced a new "Game Mode" for Mac, which aims to prioritize CPU and GPU resources specifically for gaming (Something relatively similar to the Game Mode from Windows 11). This feature also aims to reduce latency for connected AirPods and controllers from Xbox and PlayStation. According to Apple, this mode is compatible with all games on the operating system. In a show of dedication to gaming on Mac, renowned game developer Hideo Kojima made an appearance during Apple's stream to announce that Death Stranding Director's Cut will be available on macOS. I personally don't think this will be enough to improve the reputation of macOS among the gaming community, but it's not negligible news by any means.

Among other minor new features we have things like PDF functionality enhanced, allowing for quick form-filling and smart recipient recommendations with AutoFill. Notes now display PDFs and document scans in full width, and linked notes make it easy to connect related notes. Siri activation is simplified with a simple voice command (without the 'Hey'). Messages offer an enhanced stickers experience, improved search and reply features, and syncing with Messages in iCloud. Apple Reminders include intelligent grocery lists and a new column view for better organization. The keyboard features a more accurate autocorrect, inline completions, and improved Dictation. Privacy and safety measures have been expanded, including Communication Safety for AirDrop, Photos picker, incoming calls, and FaceTime messages, as well as Sensitive Content Warning to prevent exposure to sensitive media and provide resources for help. If you want to know the list in detail you can visit [the official press release](If you want to know the list in detail you can visit the official statement.) as well!

macOS Sonoma will undergo thorough beta testing, involving developers and the public, before its expected public release in October, aligning with Apple's previous release patterns. However, it's important to note that Sonoma has a specific list of supported Macs to ensure users are aware of the compatibility requirements:

• iMac 2019 or later
• iMac Pro
• MacBook Air 2018 or later
• MacBook Pro 2018 or later
• Mac Pro 2019 or later
• Mac Studio
• Mac mini 2018 or later