Apple debuted macOS Mojave at WWDC 18 today, unveiling the latest version of their venerable Mac operating system. The new OS will offer a much-anticipated “Dark Mode,” a new “Stacks” desktop organizing feature, and much more.
Dark Mode
macOS Mojave will provide the ability for users to transform their desktop to a darkened color scheme, placing more emphasis on user content, while pushing controls into the background. users will be able to toggle between a light and dark desktop, and Apple-riffic apps such as Mail, Messages, Maps, Calendar and Photos will all include Dark Mode designs.
A new Dynamic Desktop feature will automatically change the desktop wallpaper to match the time of day. An API is available to allow developers to include Dark Mode in their apps.
Desktop and Finder (Stacks)
A new “Stacks” feature of the macOS desktop automatically stacks files into neat groups, all based on file type. Stacks can be customized to sort based on file attributes like dates and tags.
Finder will include a new Gallery View that allows users to quickly skim through files visually. The Preview Pane will show all of a file’s metadata, making it media assets management easier.
Quick Actions will allow users to create and password-protects PDFs and run custom Automator Actions on files right from Finder. Quick Look offers a full-size preview of a file, allowing users to rotate and crop images, mark up PDFs, and trim media clips without needing to open an app.
News, Stocks, Voice Memos and Home
macOS versions of popular iOS apps News, Stocks, Voice Memos and Home will make their premiere in macOS Mojave. User will be able to read news stories, control HomeKit-enabled accessories, create voice memos, read stock-related news, and more, just like they have on iOS.
Group FaceTime
macOS Mojave users will be able to join in Group FaceTime sessions with iOS and Apple Watch users. Up to 32 people can join in a conversation.
New Mac App Store
The Mac App Store get a complete remodel in macOS Mojave which highlights new and updated apps in the Discover tab, while tabs for Create, Work, Play and Develop help users find apps for a specific project or purpose.
New apps from major developers are on their way to the Mac App Store, including Office from Microsoft, Lightroom CC from Adobe, and others.
Other New Features
- Screenshots deliver new on-screen controls for easy access to every screenshot option and new video recording capabilities. A streamlined workflow enables easy screenshot sharing without cluttering the desktop.
- Continuity Camera allows Mac users to take a picture or scan a document nearby with their iPhone or iPad and have it appear instantly on their Mac.
- Markup tools are now integrated into Finder, Quick Look and Screenshots, making it fast and efficient to add comments to content and share with others.
The developer preview of macOS Mojave is available to Apple Developer Program members starting today, and a public beta program will be available to Mac users in late June. macOS Mojave will be available this fall as a free software update for Macs introduced in mid-2012 or later, plus 2010 and 2012 Mac Pro models with recommended Metal-capable graphics cards.
