Apple will launch macOS Sequoia on September 16, marking its earliest major desktop OS release ever, as the tech giant focuses on AI-driven features to boost hardware sales.
Introduced at WWDC 2024, Sequoia brings the highly anticipated Apple Intelligence suite and iPhone Mirroring to the forefront.
Analysts view this rapid release as a strategic move by Apple to spur a new cycle of device upgrades. In a recent report, Morgan Stanley’s Erik Woodring noted that AI features could trigger a “multi-year product refresh cycle,” potentially accelerating the pace of hardware replacements.
macOS Sequoia enhances Siri with more advanced natural language processing, introduces intelligent summarization in Notes, and offers context-aware suggestions across various apps. Safari also receives significant upgrades, with a new Highlights feature for easier information discovery and an improved Reader mode for better long-form content consumption.
The Apple Intelligence suite will initially roll out in beta next month, with some features available first to US English users. Apple has indicated that additional languages, platforms, and features will be introduced gradually over the next year. Apple Silicon-powered devices, including MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac mini, Mac Studio, and the M2 Ultra-powered Mac Pro, will support these AI features.
Another standout feature in Sequoia is iPhone Mirroring, which allows users to access and control their iPhone directly from their Mac, turning the computer into an extension of their mobile device.
Sequoia also boosts Mac gaming support, thanks to partnerships with major developers. Titles like Assassin’s Creed Shadows are coming to the platform, and technical improvements such as Metal 3 and MetalFX Upscaling are expected to enhance gaming performance on Mac hardware.
The early release of macOS Sequoia deviates from Apple’s typical late September or October schedule, reflecting the company’s response to increasing competition in the PC market and growing demand for AI-driven technology in consumer devices.
