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The next major update, macOS 10.15 Catalina, is set to release this fall, bringing along a variety of new features. Refer to the Mytour article below to delve into what makes macOS Catalina stand out.
1. What Sets macOS Catalina Apart?
As mentioned earlier, the macOS 10.15 update brings a range of exciting new features, including:
1.1. New Apps to Replace iTunes
In macOS Catalina, Apple introduces the Apple Music, Podcasts, and Apple TV apps as replacements for iTunes.
Fundamentally, the Music app shares many similarities with iTunes, resembling the Music app on iOS 12. It allows users to sync iPhones and iPads with Mac. Additionally, for music enthusiasts, the app comes with an integrated store.
Apple Podcasts introduces an engaging search feature, leveraging machine learning to assist users in easily finding previously listened-to podcasts, even when details like the title or genre escape their memory. Apple claims the app currently boasts over 700,000 available podcasts.
Finally, the new Apple TV app supports 4K content playback and Dolby Atmos. All three apps—Music, Podcasts, and Apple TV—sync content via iCloud across devices or through cable synchronization.
1.2. Sidecar Feature
With the Sidecar feature, you can use your iPad as a secondary display for your Mac. This feature works both wired and wirelessly.
Furthermore, Sidecar enables you to utilize Multi-Touch gestures on your iPad similar to those on your Mac, supporting Apple Pencil to transform your iPad into a digital sketchpad.
Third-party applications supporting Sidecar include Adobe Illustrator, Cinema 4D, Sketch, and more.
1.3. Accessibility Features
macOS Catalina integrates a new feature called Voice Control, allowing users to fully control Mac, iPadOS, and iOS devices through voice commands. This is just one of the many new accessibility features on macOS Catalina.
1.4. Find My App
The Find My app combines the functionalities of Find My iPhone and Find My Friends on Mac, iPhone, and iPad, enabling users to easily locate their devices.
1.5. Activation Lock Feature
Available on all Macs equipped with the T2 security chip, Activation Lock allows users to erase and deactivate their Macs in case of theft. This feature is similar to what is already available on iPhone and iPad.
1.6. App Updates
Many apps in macOS Catalina also received minor updates, including:
- Notes app introduces a new library view, displaying notes as visually appealing thumbnail images for easy content identification. Users can now share notes or entire folders for viewing only. With the newly shared folders, collaboration at the folder level becomes effortlessly accessible. Additionally, the search functionality sees notable improvements.
- Reminders app is enhanced with a fresh design and updated features, including the ability to attach files, a new edit button, and more.
- Photos app introduces a new Photos tab, organizing images by day, month, and year, with automatic playback of Live Photos and videos.
- Safari browser receives updates to the new start page and various features.
- Finally, Mail app is enhanced with send features, mute option, and unsubscribe functionality.
1.7. Screen Time for Mac
Exactly 1 year after Screen Time made its debut on iOS devices, the feature has finally arrived on macOS. This new functionality allows users to track Mac usage and restrict available content. With Screen Time, you can selectively disable specific features during different times of the day.
1.8. Catalyst Project
The new Catalyst Project enables developers to create apps that work across various Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
1.9. Use Apple Watch for Authentication
Users can double-tap the button next to the Apple Watch to authenticate app access or log in to accounts on their Mac.
2. When Will Apple Officially Release macOS Catalina?
macOS 10.15 Catalina is currently available as a beta version for developers. If you're not a developer, you can wait until Apple officially releases the next major macOS version this fall.
3. Devices Compatible with macOS Catalina
Here is a list of devices compatible with macOS Catalina:
- MacBook 2015 and later
- MacBook Air 2012 and later
- MacBook Pro 2012 and later
- Mac mini 2012 and later
- iMac 2012 and later
- iMac Pro 2017 and later
- Mac Pro 2013 and later
This Mytour article provides an overview of the highlights of macOS Catalina. If you have any questions or concerns, such as fixing issues like MacBook keyboard not working, feel free to leave your comments below the article.
