The latest iteration of macOS is now widely accessible, presenting various minor modifications to the operating system that may go unnoticed if one is not attentive. Apple's conservative approach shouldn't come as a shock, as it continues to offer subtle updates to its already robust operating system. Despite their seemingly inconspicuous nature, the changes in macOS Sonoma are rich in substance, culminating in one of the most refined incarnations of macOS that I've encountered thus far.
macOS Sonoma effectively tackles the persistent widget predicament that has plagued both Apple and Microsoft computers for the past few years. No longer are you bound to open the Notification Center in order to access vital information such as weather updates and battery details for your connected Apple devices. Now, you can conveniently view all this data directly on your desktop, courtesy of meticulously crafted widgets.
These widgets closely resemble those found in iOS 17. Getting started is a breeze—simply right-click (or double-click) on the desktop, select Add Widgets, and choose the ones you desire. The initial widget you select will determine the placement of the remaining widgets, which is my only qualm here. Of course, keep in mind that the quality of the widgets depends on the corresponding app you're utilizing.
Ultimately, these widgets facilitate seamless monitoring of crucial information right on your Mac's desktop. The ability to tap on the desktop and clear all windows further enhances the user experience, providing a pristine way to quickly check on things before resuming work. While it's possible to clutter the relatively smaller display of the 13-inch MacBook Air, the 15-inch MacBook Air offers ample space to accommodate multiple widgets without hindering functionality.
However, the desktop is not the sole recipient of Apple's subtle redesign. The company has taken the opportunity to revamp password and passkey management, as well as improve the browsing experience on Macs.
Although Apple introduced passkeys in last year's software updates, the company is now actively promoting them with the latest updates. Passkeys provide a simplified and more secure method for logging in, and can be easily shared with other users in macOS Sonoma and iOS 17.
Safari now allows you to establish separate profiles, a feature long present in other browsers like Chrome and Edge. These profiles enable you to segregate your browsing habits, keeping work-related browsing separate from personal activities. It's an effective means to achieve a better work-life balance on your Mac, and I already find myself making considerable use of this feature. When I wish to take a break from work and indulge in personal browsing, I simply switch to my personal profile, and vice versa.
Apple has also enhanced private browsing in macOS Sonoma. Now, when you're not actively using private browsing, your windows are locked and require a password or Touch ID to access. Additionally, Safari now blocks internet trackers from loading and eradicates tracking elements that can identify you within URLs.
Perhaps the most significant enhancement in web browsing on Sonoma is the introduction of web apps. This functionality allows you to transform any website into an app, complete with its own icon in the Dock. Web apps offer swifter access to your preferred and frequently visited websites while ensuring a streamlined toolbar and alleviating the need for an excess of bookmarks to navigate through.
