Even if this WWDC 2023 gave pride of place to iOS 17 and Apple’s new augmented reality headset, the Cupertino company has not forgotten its computers. In addition to the announcement of two us Macs, it is macOS 14, soberly named Sonoma, which has been unveiled.
With macOS Big Sur in 2020, Apple began its small revolution in the Mac world with the transition to its own processors. This revival of the Mac has also resulted in increased interest in its operating system, which has been equipped with many new features. This year sees a more modest macOS Sonoma in features, presumably to optimize what already exists.
New for videoconferencing
Video conferencing enhancements include a presenter overlay feature that lets you show your screen behind you while keeping your face onscreen, plus augmented reality effects that can apparently be used on any video conferencing app. . These effects can be triggered when the camera recognizes you performing certain gestures, such as a double thumbs up for a fireworks explosion.
A “Game” mode for the Mac
Apple seems to be taking a step closer to gaming with a “Game” mode that reduces bluetooth latency on audio devices and gaming peripherals. In addition, the latter gives CPU and GPU priority to the game in progress.
A new porting tool for developers makes it easier to convert their games with the Metal API. In addition, dear Hideo Kojima made a small appearance to announce that Death Stranding would arrive on Mac at the end of the year, no doubt to illustrate the capabilities of this new porting tool.
Safari goes to Web Apps
Similar to Chromium browsers, Safari allows the creation of shortcuts for web apps. These appear as native software on the Mac. In addition, Safari now allows the creation of profiles, in particular to separate work or studies from staff. Finally, Safari will now lock browser windows in private mode, block trackers from loading, and remove URL trackers.
Compatibility and availability
macOS Sonoma being a lighter update, it does not (yet) totally abandon Intel Macs, although not all recent models will be supported. On the side of Apple Silicon devices, however, there is nothing to worry about.
Developers can now download the beta from Apple’s website. A public beta version should be available a little later, probably in July. The official release should be, as usual, in the fall
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