Apple is set to release macOS Sequoia on September 16th, the earliest release ever of its major desktop operating system, as the company leans heavily on AI features to drive a new wave of hardware upgrades.
The new operating system, unveiled at WWDC 2024, introduces a range of AI-powered features called Apple Intelligence and the popular iPhone Mirroring.
Industry analysts see this quick release as Apple’s attempt to boost hardware sales. Morgan Stanley’s Eric Woodring suggested in a recent report that AI features could drive Apple’s “multi-year product refresh cycle” and accelerate device replacement rates.
With macOS Sequoia, users can expect improved natural language processing in Siri, intelligent summaries in Notes, and contextual suggestions across a range of apps.
Sequoia also brings significant improvements to Safari, Apple’s web browser: a new highlighting feature promises more intuitive information search, and an updated Reader Mode aims to improve the use of long-form content.
The Apple Intelligence Suite will be available in beta starting next month. Some features will initially be available to English-speaking users in the United States. Apple’s website states that “Some features, additional languages, and platforms will be coming over the course of the next year.” Apple says that MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac mini, Mac Studio with Apple Silicon M1 or later, and Mac Pro with M2 Ultra processors will have Apple Intelligence features.
Sequoia also includes iPhone Mirroring, which allows users to access and control their iPhone directly from their Mac, effectively turning their computer into an extension of their mobile device.
Apple said it also expanded support for Mac gaming in Sequoia. Partnerships with major developers will bring titles like Assassin’s Creed Shadows to the platform, along with technical improvements like Metal 3 and MetalFX Upscaling to improve gaming performance on Mac hardware.
The quick release of macOS Sequoia differs from Apple’s usual late September or October desktop operating system update schedule. Apple faces increasing competition in the PC market and growing demand for AI capabilities in consumer technology.
Read more about new iPhones, new Apple Watch models, and more Apple announced at its Glowtime event on Monday.