Exciting macOS Sonoma Features Worth Your Attention
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Introduction to macOS Sonoma
I always look forward to updates, whether they're for applications or operating systems. When macOS Sonoma launched this week, I couldn't wait to explore its capabilities on my personal and work Macs. Although the update includes a plethora of features, many are subtle changes or specialized updates that may only appeal to a small audience—and frankly, they don't quite suit my needs.
In this article, I have curated a selection of genuinely beneficial features and enhancements from macOS Sonoma that I find advantageous in my everyday tasks, and I believe many of you will feel similarly.
Web Apps on Mac
One of the standout features in macOS Sonoma is the ability to turn any website viewed in Safari into a standalone web app with a simple 'Add to Dock' option in the File menu. This allows these web apps to sit in your dock, making them accessible without needing to open Safari. This change is a breath of fresh air, especially considering how cluttered my Mac used to feel with numerous open tabs.
Now, I can access frequently visited sites like X, YouTube, or Medium with just a click—no more rummaging through a cluttered tab bar. This update also helps keep Safari looking tidy, making it easier to use websites as individual applications.
Safari Profiles
Previously, I favored Chrome over Safari because I needed browser profiles to separate my work and personal browsing history, saved passwords, and bookmarks. Constantly switching between accounts on sites like Gmail or Canva became a hassle.
However, with the introduction of browser profiles in the macOS Sonoma update, I can now comfortably use Safari for both work and leisure. This brings along advantages such as improved privacy, security, better resource management, and seamless syncing with iCloud Private Relay.
Center Stage on iPhone
A common annoyance during video calls when working from home is the Center Stage feature, which automatically zooms out or pans to include anyone moving in the background. While this can be handy if you want to include that person in the conversation, it’s less desirable when it’s your family member wandering around.
In response to this, Apple has refined the Center Stage feature in macOS Sonoma. When you have a compatible iPhone and Mac, the focus remains solely on you, minimizing distractions from your surroundings.
One-Time Verification Code Autofill from Mail
For those utilizing two-factor authentication (2FA) across various accounts—an essential security measure—entering the authentication code from your email can be tedious.
macOS Sonoma simplifies this process for users of Apple Mail and Safari. Just as text message codes autofill in Safari, so will the codes received via email, streamlining your login experience.
One-Time Verification Code Cleanup
I strive to maintain a tidy inbox, only keeping essential emails and promptly unsubscribing from newsletters. However, my inbox often gets cluttered with emails containing authentication codes every time I log into a service.
Thanks to a new feature in macOS Sonoma, emails that solely deliver authentication codes will now be automatically deleted, freeing up space in your inbox.
Sign In with Phone Number for Apple ID
I have a total of 12 different email addresses—personal, work, and subscription accounts. Keeping track of which email I used for what can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to my Apple ID.
The latest macOS Sonoma update allows users to log in to their Apple ID using their phone number, which is typically easier to remember than multiple email addresses. This is a relief for anyone with a similar email overload.
Interactive Widgets
One of the highlighted features in macOS Sonoma is the introduction of interactive widgets—widgets you can engage with directly. While many widgets might not seem particularly useful to me right now, I find the Reminders widget especially handy.
Previously, I had to open the Reminders app to mark tasks as complete, but now I can do so directly from the notification center with a simple swipe.
Early and Suggested Reminders
The Reminders app has also seen significant upgrades. Users can now set reminders for events ahead of time, rather than just when they occur.
Moreover, the new suggested reminders feature facilitates the creation of reminders for recurring tasks. For instance, when I start typing “book,” the Reminders app suggests previous reminders, making it easier to set up.
Quick Actions and Settings in Spotlight
Spotlight search is a feature I rely on daily for everything from launching applications to checking the weather. Each macOS update, I eagerly check for enhancements to this tool.
In macOS Sonoma, two new capabilities have been integrated into Spotlight. The Quick Actions feature allows users to perform relevant tasks directly from the search results.
Additionally, you can search for specific settings actions, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and quickly navigate to that section in System Settings, eliminating the need to sift through numerous options.
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