It was no surprise that Apple was going to reveal some of the new features coming to macOS later this year during the key note opening of the WWDC. It has done so, but not before presenting the new M2 chip, which comes first to a new MacBook Air and a new 13″ MacBook Pro.
During the presentation, the company announced the name that the next version of macOS will have, as well as the various details of the new innovations and updates to its apps for Mac: Mail, Safari and others.
We’re not beating around the bush: here’s everything you need to know about macOS 13.
macOS 13 name revealed: Ventura
For months, it had been rumored that the next macOS update, macOS 13, would be called Mammoth. Well, the rumors have not been right this time, and almost better, because the name finally chosen sounds much better: Ventura.
Thus, Apple’s tradition of giving each version of macOS a name in addition to a version number is maintained. As usual and since the launch of Mavericks in 2013, the name is taken from a California location. Before, names of big cats were used.
When will macOS 13 be released?
As usual, Apple has presented some of the main features that will come to the next version of macOS during the key note inaugural of the WWDC 2022, which has been held this June 6 at 10:00 (local time).
The software It won’t be released to the public, mind you, until well into a few months (“autumn,” according to Apple). Most likely, it will not arrive until the end of October 2022, probably when new Macs and MacBooks will also arrive. In 2021, macOS Monterey arrived on Monday, October 25, so something similar could happen for macOS 13.
For now, the only ones who can test the new features of macOS 13 are the developers who are part of the Apple Developer Program, since the company has already launched the first beta version for developers this June 6.
Those who are part of the Apple Beta Software Program will be able to test the first public beta version starting in July.
Which Macs will be compatible with macOS 13?
We already know the Macs compatible with macOS Ventura:
- MacBook models from 2017
- MacBook Air models from 2018 or later
- MacBook Pro models from 2017 or later
- Mac mini models from 2018 or later
- 2019 Mac Pro models
- iMac models from 2017 or later
- iMac Pro (all models)
- Mac Studio (all models)
As you can see, they are not the same ones that were compatible with macOS 12 Monterey when it arrived in the fall of 2021. It is a shame, but those who have a MacBook from 2016, a MacBook Air from 2015-2017, a MacBook Pro from 2015-2016, a A Mac mini from 2014, a Mac Pro from 2013, or an iMac from 2015 will no longer be able to update your device to the latest version.
The new features of macOS 13 Ventura
Stage Manager
The Continuity feature continues to evolve now with the introduction of Stage Manager, a new way of managing desktop clutter that reminds us a bit of Spaces, as it allows you to organize your workspaces and hide them, albeit on one side of the screen, in place of at the top.
continuity chamber
Another function related to the Continuity function is the one that will allow you to use your iPhone as a webcam, as well as transfer a FaceTime call from your iPhone or iPad to your Mac. It is a good way to take advantage of the iPhone camera, much more powerful than the from any Mac.
One really impressive feature is Desk View, which shows the person you’re calling two views: your face and your desk. Using the iPhone camera means Mac users can benefit from features like Portrait mode and Center Stage and the new Studio Light feature.
spot light
Spotlight is Apple’s feature for finding things, and now it’s been revamped. Quick Look will allow you to preview the files. You can search photos by location, objects, people and much more. Live Text enhancements mean you’ll be able to search within images and videos too. Users will even be able to create a new document, start a timer, or more, right from Spotlight.
System settings
‘System Settings’ is the new name for ‘System Preferences’, a name that iOS users are likely to feel right at home with.
The apps that have been updated in macOS 13 Ventura
Over the years, as Apple has updated the operating system on the Mac, it has also made changes to many of the apps that come with the Mac, and it’s the same this year.
Apple has already shown off some of the new features coming to Safari and Mail, along with updates to the Weather and Clock app, as well as new accessibility tools (like live captions).
Mail will bring improvements to search, but surely the most anticipated feature is the ability to unsend an email after it’s been sent (we imagine there will be a time limit) and also schedule an email to be sent.
Messages
Like its iOS counterpart (iOS 16), ‘Messages’ on the Mac will also allow users to edit a message once it’s sent, as well as recover accidentally deleted messages.
Safari
The access keys will be generated as a more secure way to identify you (they will be associated with Touch ID or Face ID). These will replace the passwords. Apple claims that “Passkeys are unique digital keys that remain on the device and are never stored on a web server,” so they are more secure because it’s impossible to leak one, or have someone impersonate you.
Gaming
the world is expected gaming on the Mac take off finally. Apple says all new Macs will be able to run AAA games “with ease.” Improvements to Metal 3, MetalFX Upscaling, and Fast Resource Loading API should benefit game developers.
