Apple has recently released macOS Sequoia, bringing a host of new features and improvements to compatible Mac devices. This article will explore eight key features that users should prioritize when first using the new operating system. While some features rely on Apple Intelligence, which may not be available in all regions or on all devices, we’ll focus primarily on features accessible to all users.
1. The New Passwords App: Built-in Password Management
macOS Sequoia introduces a built-in password management app, eliminating the need for third-party password managers. This native solution offers seamless integration with the operating system and provides a range of useful features:
- Automatic password saving and retrieval for websites
- Storage of passkeys and verification codes
- Wi-Fi code management, including QR code generation
- Menu bar integration for quick access to passwords
To enable menu bar access, open the Passwords app, go to password settings, and enable “show passwords in menu bar.” This adds a key icon to your menu bar, allowing you to quickly launch websites with recently created logins or view recommended details for the current website.
2. Calendar and Reminders Integration: Enhanced Productivity
This is my favorite feature!
macOS Sequoia brings tighter integration between the Calendar and Reminders apps, significantly improving time management and task organization. Key features include:
- Viewing Reminders directly in the Calendar app
- Completing reminders from within Calendar
- Drag-and-drop functionality for easy task scheduling
This integration is particularly useful on Mac, where drag-and-drop actions are more intuitive. For example, you can drag an email from the Mail app onto your Calendar to create a reminder or event for later action. By default, Calendar treats dragged items as events, but you can easily convert them to reminders with a single click.
3. iPhone Mirroring: Seamless Device Integration
iPhone mirroring is a standout feature of macOS Sequoia, extending Apple’s continuity system. This feature allows you to view and control your iPhone directly from your Mac’s screen. Requirements include:
- A compatible Mac (Apple silicon-based or Intel-based with T2 security chip)
- Both Mac and iPhone updated to the latest operating systems
While you can access common apps like Mail, Safari, and Messages on both devices, the real benefit lies in accessing iPhone-exclusive apps on your Mac. For example:
- Viewing security camera feeds without switching devices
- Checking mobile banking apps
- Using social media apps designed for mobile
This feature enhances workflow by reducing the need to switch between devices, keeping you focused on your Mac while still accessing iPhone-specific content.
4. Safari Improvements: Enhanced Browsing Experience
Safari in macOS Sequoia introduces several features to improve your browsing experience:
Hide Distracting Items
This feature allows you to remove specific elements from web pages:
- Tap the Reader View icon to the left of the address bar
- Select “Hide Distracting Items”
- Click on any item on the page to remove it
- Press “Done” when finished
Note that this is not an ad blocker; removed items will reappear if you refresh the page. It’s most useful for prolonged reading sessions or capturing clean screenshots.
Improved Reader View
The Reader View has been redesigned for easier access and use. Simply press the Reader View button and select “Show Reader” for a cleaner reading experience.
Article Summarization (Apple Intelligence feature)
For users with Apple Intelligence enabled, a “Summarize” option appears at the top of articles in Reader mode. This feature generates a concise summary of the article, displayed in a sidebar.
5. Enhanced Calculator with Improved Conversion Features
The Calculator app in macOS Sequoia has received significant upgrades, particularly in its conversion capabilities:
- Access conversion mode by pressing Command-Option-C
- Convert between various units including angles, area, energy, power, pressure, speed, and currencies
- Real-time currency conversion using hourly updated rates
- Perform calculations within conversions (e.g., calculate discounted amounts in different currencies)
To use the conversion feature:
- Open the conversion mode
- Select the units you want to convert between
- Enter your values
- The conversion is performed automatically
This enhancement makes the native Calculator app much more versatile and user-friendly for a wide range of calculations and conversions.
6. Screen Snapping: Native Window Management
macOS Sequoia introduces a native screen snapping feature, potentially eliminating the need for third-party window management apps. This feature allows you to easily organize and resize windows on your screen. Key functionalities include:
- Snapping windows to left, right, top, or bottom of the screen
- Intelligent window positioning
- Full-screen options without entering true full-screen mode
To use screen snapping:
- Hover over the green traffic light button of any app window
- Choose from the available options to move, resize, or arrange the window
For more options, go to the “Window” menu at the top of the screen.
Customization tips:
- In System Settings > Desktop & Dock > Windows, consider disabling “tiled windows have margins” for edge-to-edge window placement
- Hold the Option key while dragging a window to snap it into place
7. Notes App Improvements: Enhanced Note-Taking and Organization
The Notes app in macOS Sequoia continues to evolve, bringing it closer to being a comprehensive note-taking solution. New features include:
Audio Recording and Transcription
- Record audio directly into notes
- Automatic transcription of recordings (available on compatible Macs, even without Apple Intelligence)
- For Apple Intelligence users: ability to add transcriptions to notes as editable text
In-Note Calculations
Perform calculations directly within notes without switching to the Calculator app.
Text Highlighting and Collapsible Headings
- Highlight text using Shift + Command + E
- Headings now automatically become collapsible, improving note organization
These improvements make the Notes app more versatile and powerful for various note-taking and organizational needs.
8. Reduce Interruptions Focus Mode (Apple Intelligence Feature)
For users with access to Apple Intelligence, macOS Sequoia introduces a new focus mode called “Reduce Interruptions.” This intelligent feature aims to minimize distractions while allowing important notifications through:
- Set up like other focus modes, allowing or silencing notifications from specific people or apps
- Uses AI to determine if a notification should break through the focus mode rules
- Learns and improves over time based on user behavior and preferences
While this feature relies on Apple Intelligence, it represents a significant step forward in managing digital distractions and maintaining productivity.
Conclusion
macOS Sequoia brings a range of improvements that enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and improve the overall user experience on Mac devices. From the new Passwords app and improved Calculator to enhanced Safari features and tighter app integrations, this update offers something for every Mac user.
As you explore macOS Sequoia, you may discover additional features and improvements not covered in this overview. The operating system continues to evolve, particularly with the integration of AI technologies, promising even more enhancements in future updates.
Remember to check your device compatibility before upgrading, and consider backing up your data before installing the new operating system. As with any major update, some features may vary depending on your specific Mac model and region.
Whether you’re a long-time Mac user or new to the ecosystem, macOS Sequoia offers a range of tools and improvements to help you work more efficiently and enjoy your computing experience. Take some time to explore these new features and customize them to fit your workflow – you may find that they significantly enhance your day-to-day use of your Mac.
