If you have an Intel Mac and want to install MacOs Sonoma announced at WWDC23, not only will you have to have a relatively recent machine but you will also have to be prepared for some sacrifices in terms of functions
According to tradition, in fact, the new operating system offers the best only on newer computers, leaving some holes for the old ones. In this specific case, when we say “new” we are talking about Macs with the Apple processor (from M1 up) and when we are talking about functions it must be considered among those not available for Intel Macs Presenter Overlayan overlay mode for video conferencing that places the presenter on top of the content being shared.
Reed the Reactionsa feature that allows the user to apply special video effects (balloons, confetti, hearts and more) with gestures during a presentation are only for Macs with Apple Silicon.
These features they take advantage of the Neural Engine of Apple chips and that is why, probably, Cupertino has decided to offer these possibilities only on the most recent Macs.
Even the Game Mode that promises to improve the gaming experience, is reserved for Apple Silicon. It’s an optimized gaming experience “with smoother and more consistent frame rates,” ensuring games get top priority on the CPU and GPU.
This mode, among other things, significantly reduces audio latency with AirPods and significantly reduces input lag with popular game controllers, such as those for Xbox and PlayStation, by doubling the Bluetooth sample rate.
The novelty of Siri – on macOS Sonoma in English can be activated dsimply saying “Siri” (and no longer “Hey Siri”) – will only be available on Apple silicon Macs and/or AirPods Pro (2nd generation) such as the new “high performance mode” on screen sharing app. This feature promises “incredibly responsive remote access,” designed for hybrid professional remote and studio workflows, with low-latency audio, high frame rates, and support for up to two virtual displays.
For developers enrolled in the Apple Developer Program, macOS Sonoma beta is available now at developer.apple.com. The public beta will be available in July through the Apple Beta Software program at beta.apple.com. The final release for everyone will be available this fall as a free software update.
In the coming days, we will be dedicating several in-depth articles to macOS Sonoma, illustrating peculiarities and important innovations; the reference link with the deicate articles is this.