Apple Resuscitates macOS Monterey By Infusing Powerful Updates To Safari and FaceTime
The new beta version of macOS 12 Monterey is up for download by Apple. On the face value, it seems the OS has the same outlook as its predecessor, macOS 11 Big Sur, but brings some exciting features. Let’s see what are these;
The best part of the update is FaceTime. In portrait mode which blurs the background behind. It is also available for integration in third-party apps.
Group calls have always been problematic, but this time Monterey’s updates make it a clear competitor against Zoom thanks to grid view and spatial audio. Spatial view allows the people’s voices to sound in the same area where their face is positioned.
Another new feature is SharePlay that imitates Netflix Party. Watch content during FaceTime calls by video playback syncs. The supported services are HBO, Hulu, Disney Plus, Twitch, TikTok, and Pluto TV. Netflix is not added yet to the integrated list.
Another new update is Quick Note to make notes on a map, photo, app, or article. Quick Notes also sync across devices. Moreover, Apple has also rolled out some “continuity” features, making the same features easier and usable. Namely, the exciting one is Universal Control. It either mirrors the iPhone’s screen or acts as an AirPlay 2 speaker.
Also Read: 5 Quick Steps to Download macOS Big Sur Now
Excitingly, Safari also got some positive tweaks. Tabs are repositioned, URL bar now sits next to tabs, making more space. Tabs are more rounded. The sidebar hosts clusters of five tabs.
The all-new Safari browser could also be tested in old macOS versions by installing Safari Technology Preview. Fortunately, macOS Monterey is supported with all the devices up to 2013.
Overall, this latest overhaul could be best described as “odds and ends”. Many may like it but still, some would scoff at the whole exercise.
