A new version of macOS finally arrived on November 12th, 2020. A lot of new and amazing features have come up along with the new macOS Big Sur, and here’s everything you need to know about the same.
One significant change is the refreshed design for macOS, both as streamlining apps and an operating system. You’ll notice that apps like ‘Photos’ and ‘Mail’ have a similar preview like the one on iOS and iPadOS. Not only this, but for the very first time, the Notification Center comprises a single view.
Do you want to know more about the changes that have been introduced by the new macOS Big Sur? Well, here’s all the information you need.
Change in Design
The new macOS Big Sur has something big for you all. Claimed as the biggest design upgrade since Mac OS X, Big Sur has made navigation not only easy but has come up with additional controls. From the curvature of window corners to the palette of colors, everything has been refreshed. Other changes are as mentioned below:
- Icons in the Dock are more consistent than ever with all other icons of Apple’s system.
- Buttons and other controls can be receded when not needed and can be brought up when required.
- The menu bar is customizable and includes a fresh Control Center delivering instant access to controls. Also, you can add more controls to the Control Center if you like.
- The Notification Center is updated, which is now available in new design and comprises new features. Alerts and widgets can be viewed in a single window while the notifications are grouped.
Major App Changes
Some of the notable app changes are mentioned below:
Safari: It is the primary web browser used by the majority of people, which is now updated with the macOS Big Sur. Features like privacy report and password monitoring are added. Additionally, a tracking prevention tool is used by Safari to identify and keep the trackers away from tracking your information.
Changes have also been introduced for ‘Extensions’ that’ll enable you to decide which sites can access the same. Also, Extensions have an important place in the Mac App Store.
Safari has also featured a custom home page that enables you to add shortcuts and use features like language translation. Interestingly, the company mentioned that the new Safari version is about fifty percent faster than Chrome.
Messages App: The Messages app has introduced another major update on macOS Big Sur. Along with pinning the conversation, the update also enables you to keep your priority conversations at the top.
Along with inline replies, you can also forward direct replies to messages in any chatbox. Therefore, a thread gets started automatically. Additionally, the Messages app lets you share images, effects, GIFs, Memoji, and more.
The new search feature instantly organizes results and also highlights other matching information.
Apple Maps: A new design of Apple Maps feature guides from trusted sources and a chance to create your own. You can create any guides, including restaurants, parking spots, parks, etc. The Maps app also includes indoor maps of areas like an airport, a shopping mall, etc.
Furthermore, you can directly send cycling trip information to the iPhone to make it easy when on the go.
Mac App Store: The App Store includes the latest privacy tools for macOS Big Sur. A summary of the developer’s privacy policy can be viewed when you search for an application for installing.
Other Changes: Other changes introduced for the macOS Big Sur includes the AirPod Device Switching feature, which will enable you to play music across all your active Apple devices. The Photos app has new and improved editing tools. Facial Recognition feature has been introduced for the HomeKit Secure Video app. Additionally, more web knowledge is added to Smart Siri.
In case you’re wondering if you can update your Mac to the new macOS Big Sur, here’s a list of the devices for which you can do the same:
- MacBook Air (2013 or later)
- MacBook (2015 or later)
- Mac Mini (2014 or newer)
- MacBook Pro (2013 or newer)
- iMac (2014 or later)
- iMac Pro (2017 or newer)
- Mac Pro (2013 or newer)
So, finally, it’s time to download after you’ve become familiar with new features and updates introduced by the macOS Big Sur. Therefore, you can download the same for any compatible Mac using the App Store or from the settings section of your computer.
