The next generation of the Apple operating system is almost here! The latest macOS update is one of the most major macOS updates in Mac history. There are many new features and changes from the look and design to the apps and color scheme.
This guide will tell you everything you need to know about the latest macOS update. Read on to learn more about its features, system requirements, and beta issues.
What is macOS Big Sur?
The latest macOS update is the seventeenth and the next major release for Apple’s operating systems. The Big Sure update is the first significant version change for more than 15 years. Apple is now dropping the 10.x and changing to 11.x.
The Big Sur version is the first to support the switch to Apple-designed ARM processors. It will allow your Macs to run iOS and iPadOS apps. The new update will unify your desktop experience with the best of your iPhone and iPad’s OS to create a user computing environment.
System Requirements
Apple has not released the official requirements for the latest macOS update. But we do know which Macs can support most of the newest features of Big Sur. Here are the devices that support the new macOS 11 Big Sur:
- Mac Pro (2013)
- iMac Pro (from 2017)
- iMac (2014)
- Mac mini (2014)
- MacBook Pro (Late 2013)
- MacBook Air (2013)
- MacBook (2015)
Unlike macOS Catalina, Big Sur can only support versions of Macs released in 2012 and 2013. Note that some features need better processors to work, so we suggest getting one of Mac’s newer versions to make all the features work well.
New Features In the Big Sur Update
The Big Sur update is sure to elevate your desktop operating system to a new level of beauty and power. Apple changed everything from the curvature of the window corners to the dock icon designs. There are also changes in your favorite Mac applications, giving you a fresh, new experience.
Refined User Interface
Apple introduces the new look with a focus on consistency, clarity, and content. It gives a more translucent look with a new color palette. We now have a new, improved hierarchy through the shading and depth.
The toolbars and sidebars blend better with each window and are now full height. Apple changed the icons with a design similar to those on your iOS and iPad. The control center can instantly access the controls you use the most, like WiFi and Bluetooth.
The new notification system combines your notifications and widgets in a single view. You can customize and change the size of the widgets to match your preferred style. Apple also refined the system sounds, and you have an integration with Apple’s SF symbols.
Messaging System
The Messages is the native app of Mac that got the most updates. You can now see all your messages without having to look at your phone. Messages also have an improved search making it easier to find specific messages.
With pinned messages, you will never have to look for your favorite conversations. You can find other features at the top of the app like tap backs, animations, and typing indicators. The Messages app has a similar feature to FB’s Messenger, where you can reply to specific messages.
Improved Safari Browser
With the new Big Sur update, Apple says that Safai now works 50% faster than Chrome. Safari also lets you do more online work on a single charge. You can now customize the background image and decide what appears on your start page.
There’s also a dedicated category in the App Store for Safari Extensions. The new support for migration tools and WebExtensions API allows new developers to bring extensions from other browsers to Safari. Safari also has a new tab design where you can hover over a tab to bring up an instant page preview.
Big Sur now supports many languages, and you can translate an entire webpage with a single click. The new, improved Safari makes sure to keep your passwords safe and warns you of any data breach.
More Functional Photos
The Photos app now has editing tools with plenty of filters, portrait lighting, and vibrance effects. It also has a retouch tool that enhances and adjusts your picture to look better. With the help of iCloud, you can use captions that will sync to your iPhone and iPad.
Easier Planning Through Maps
The Maps app makes your trip planning easier and faster with its powerful new features. It’s easy to create your guide while giving you information about locations. You can also see route plannings for cyclists and electric vehicles.
It warns you of any elevations, traffic, car charge, and other potential obstacles for your pathing. Maps allow you to take a look at the interior designs of most airports and shopping centers. You can now browse detailed layouts by using the smooth, immersive 3D Maps feature.
App Store
Apple improved the privacy information on the App Store, giving you more transparency with every download. You can find a summary of each app with a developer’s privacy practices.
It’s easy to know what data each app will collect. You can also know whether that app will use your data for other apps and websites.
Are There Any Issues With the latest macOS?
At the moment, only the beta version of Big Sur is available. Some of the most problems that beta users run into involves:
- Disappearing menu bar
- Battery Drainage
- Freezing and Lagging
Note that it is only the beta version. Although, if you still want to try the beta version, here’s a guide to know how to fix macOS Big Sur issues.
The Latest macOS Update
“The latest Big Sur update will replace Catalina by fall,” Apple said. So, get yourself and your Mac ready for the latest macOS update. Look forward to the latest update and install it soon!
Do you want to learn more about Apple devices? There is so much you can do with the operating system if you find that you don’t jive with some of the features. Check out our guides to learn what you can do today!
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