macOS Big Sur, the latest version of Apple’s operating system for its Mac computers and “the biggest change made since the launch of macOS X” is an important edition since for the first time it has had to support two different architectures, Intel’s x86 and the new bet on ARM architecture with which in a couple of years it will complete the transition using SoCs of its design.
Bearing in mind that Apple’s software is as relevant as its hardware, it is not surprising that it continues to work on the system and has announced the upcoming availability of macOS Big Sur 11.3, a beta version especially intended for developers, but that any user will be able to try it out.
macOS Big Sur 11.3 features
Safari
Apple said that the version of Safari created for Big Sur was the biggest update of its web browser since its inception, with significant performance improvements; Lower power consumption; A greater number of extensions; Features designed to protect privacy or improved tab layout. For the next version, changes such as:
- The homepage now supports new customization options, as users can rearrange sections using customization controls, including favorite websites, reading list,s and Siri suggestions.
- New extension types allow developers to create extensions that deliver experiences directly on the New Tab page.
- With the Web Speech API, developers can incorporate speech recognition directly into their web pages.
iOS/iPad Apps on Mac
The integration between macOS and the systems for Apple’s other devices has been improving with each release. The transition to the ARM architecture will make it much easier in the future to create apps and further a unified operating system for any Apple hardware.
In this regard, Apple has improved the performance of iOS and iPadOS apps on Macs with M1 with a couple of changes that without being revolutionary make it clear where Apple is going in development:
- iPadOS apps can launch with a larger window when screen size permits.
- A new preference pane, available in iPad and iPhone apps, gives users greater control over keyboard commands for touch alternatives.
Reminders
Users can easily sort Reminders by title, priority, deadline, or by date created. Reminders can be manually moved up and down within any list, including smart lists. And new support for printing Reminders means it’s easy to print a to-do list and check items off on paper.
Apple Music
New Apple Music features – Apple Music makes it even easier for users to find their personal mixes and playlists with a shortcut to Made for You. And Listen will show them upcoming special live events according to their tastes.
Game controllers
Apple has added support for next-generation game controllers and now your users will be able to enjoy their favorite games with the latest Xbox Series X wireless controller or Sony DualSense wireless controller.
Which Mac devices will have Big Sur macOS support?
In case you missed it so far, Big Sur is offering free of charge to upgrade older versions of Mac operating systems and specifically the following computers:
- MacBook (2015 or later)
- MacBook Air (2013 or later)
- MacBook Pro (late 2013 or later)
- Mac mini (2014 or later)
- iMac (2014 or later)
- iMac Pro (2017 or later)
- Mac Pro (2013 or later)
Apple provides a page on its support site with the steps to take to upgrade computers. macOS Big Sur 11.3 will be available soon initially in beta.
