Apple today pushed the macOS 14 Developer Preview Beta 2 update (build number: 23A5276g) to Mac computer users. This update is 15 days after the last release.
macOS Sonoma 14 Beta 2 New Features / New Features
According to the official macOS Sonoma 14 Beta 2 update log, it mainly improves the algorithm of accelerometer space, BNNS, vImage and other attributes, so as to provide a better interactive experience.
The new version also introduces a number of improvements to AirPods, inviting more developers to install beta firmware to test new features such as adaptive audio, personalized volume, and conversation awareness. Attached is the relevant function introduction as follows:
Adaptive Audio:
This new listening mode can dynamically integrate the transparency mode and active noise reduction mode according to the user’s environment, bringing the most suitable listening experience for the moment.
Adaptive Audio Mode seamlessly adjusts the noise-canceling experience as users move through different environments and interactions throughout the day.
Personalized volume:
In order to continuously improve the personal audio experience, the personalized volume uses machine learning to understand the user’s environmental conditions and listening preferences, and automatically fine-tune the multimedia experience over time.
Conversation awareness:
Conversation Sense brings an unparalleled new communication experience to users wearing AirPods Pro (2nd generation)—users can start a conversation directly with the person next to them while wearing the headset, and Conversation Sense will reduce the volume of the headset and enhance the sound from the front of the user while reducing ambient noise.
macOS Sonoma 14 Beta 1 New Features / New Features
Small Parts
After the user opens the window, the widget fades into the background. Additionally, the Mac and iPhone can access widgets from the iPhone if they are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
The widgets are also interactive, and an official Apple demo showed how to control the connected vehicle from the desktop widget.
Game Mode
Apple also introduced a new Game Mode for Mac devices. Apple says this mode is applicable to games on all Mac platforms, will reduce the audio delay of AirPods, and double the Bluetooth sampling rate after connecting an Xbox or PlayStation controller.
Apple also invited Hideo Kojima in the opening speech and confirmed in the live broadcast that “Death Stranding Director’s Cut” will land on the macOS platform.
Improve video conferencing
Apple has further improved the effect of video conferencing and can use AR special effects in meeting. The webcam can recognize certain user gestures, which can trigger certain effects, such as giving a thumbs up, which can trigger a firework explosion effect.
Safari Browser
Enhanced privacy protection
The new version of the Safari browser adds privacy protection features such as locking the browser window, blocking trackers, and removing URL trackers.
In addition, the new version of the Safari browser also supports users to share passwords and keys with friends or other group friends through iCloud Keychain. Apple promises to use end-to-end encryption throughout the process, and Apple will not know the password information.
Create multiple browser accounts
Users are allowed to create accounts in the new version of the Safari browser to separate work and personal accounts. This feature will help prevent data and trackers from mixing with each other and help you browse more organized.
Focus on web applications
Apple is reemphasizing WebApps, introducing the “Add to Dock” feature, which allows users to quickly pin a web application to the Dock.
Optimize the underlying code
Apple has also updated its WebKit rendering engine, including adding vibration support for gamepads, support for external webcams in Safari on iPad, and support for the AVIF image format in Safari on macOS Big Sur and later.
Apple claims Safari is “the best way to browse the web” and is “the fastest browser in the world.” It’s worth noting that iOS and iPadOS third-party browsers still require WebKit to run in the background.
macOS Sonoma Testing Schedule:
June 5: Apple releases developer preview of macOS 14
July: Apple releases the first public beta of macOS 14
June to September/October: During the testing period, Apple will roll out multiple beta updates
September/October: Official release of macOS 14Compatible with macOS Sonoma models
Apple has given up support for some 2017 Mac models, and the attached list is as follows:
2019 and later iMac models
2019 and later Mac Pro models
2017 and later iMac Pro models
Mac Studio in 2022 and beyond
2018 and later MacBook Air models
2018 and later Mac mini models
2018 and later MacBook Pro models