macOS 12 Monterey: Apple Unveils Latest Operating System

Recent macOS Updates and the Introduction of Monterey

The last twelve months have witnessed substantial advancements in the Mac ecosystem. Last year’s WWDC saw Apple announce its transition from Intel processors to its proprietary silicon. Subsequently, the company released the initial three M1-powered Macs, alongside macOS Big Sur, a significant operating system update.

This morning’s WWDC keynote unveiled macOS 12 – officially named Monterey. Universal Control is the standout new capability, effectively diminishing the boundaries between desktop and tablet computing. By simply positioning an iPad adjacent to a Mac, users can seamlessly navigate between devices with the same trackpad and keyboard; this functionality extends to a maximum of three devices simultaneously.

New Features in macOS Monterey

AirPlay to Mac now enables content casting directly to a desktop display – a beneficial addition for those without a television. Shortcuts, previously exclusive to iOS, are now available on macOS, simplifying automation processes compared to the existing Automator application. Users can import existing Automator workflows into the desktop version of the mobile app.

While Automator will eventually be phased out, it will be a gradual transition. Shortcuts will initially integrate with Siri, Spotlight, the menu bar, and Finder.

Safari and Additional Updates

Updates to Safari include the introduction of Tab Groups, allowing users to bundle and share tabs. This feature may necessitate adjustments to existing workflows. Furthermore, the tab bar has been redesigned for improved clarity and efficiency.

Desktop extensions are now compatible with iOS and iPadOS. Additional enhancements include Spatial Audio support for desktops utilizing AirPods Pro, a dedicated games folder within LaunchPad, and the option to display Memojis on the login screen.

While Monterey introduces valuable additions, it doesn’t represent a transformation as substantial as the Big Sur update. Much of the ongoing development appears to be focused on refining the Apple Silicon experience across the entire system.

A public beta program will commence next month, with Monterey becoming available to all users this fall.