Apple yesterday announced that macOS Sonoma, the latest version of its Mac operating system, will be available for download to all users with compatible Mac models starting on Tuesday, September 26.
macOS Sonoma brings several new features, including enhancements to Messages, Safari, and other apps, desktop widgets, Apple TV-like screensavers, a new Game mode, and more.
macOS Sonoma features new interactive widgets, which can now be placed directly on the Mac desktop. The widgets blend into the Mac’s desktop wallpaper to get out of your way when you’re working, and Continuity allows Mac owners to use the same widgets from their iPhone on their Mac.
The new OS also brings new video conferencing features. A new Presenter Overlay feature allows users to display themselves in front of any content they are sharing during a video conference. Screen Sharing has been improved to simplify the process.
Safari will receive numerous new features in Sonoma, including a Private Browsing update providing additional protection from trackers or from people who might access the user’s device. Safari will also offer separate browsing between topics, such as having one for work and one for personal browsing. Users can now create web apps that work like normal apps.
When macOS Sonoma is idle, new screen savers can be displayed, featuring videos of various locations worldwide.
Gamers will appreciate a new Game Mode that provides an optimized gaming experience to provide smoother and more consistent frame rates. The mode dramatically lowers audio latency when using AirPods, while also reducing input latency for game controllers. The mode works with any game on Mac.
macOS Sonoma is compatible with the following Macs:
- iMac 2019 and later
- Mac Pro 2019 and later
- iMac Pro 2017
- Mac Studio 2022 and later
- MacBook Air 2018 and later
- Mac mini 2018 and later
- MacBook Pro 2018 and later
For more information about macOS Sonoma, click here.
