macOS Sequoia 15.2 Released - What's New? (Apple Intelligence)

Summary

macOS Sequoia 15.2 introduces a host of exciting features, including the integration of ChatGPT for enhanced text generation and Siri capabilities. New weather widgets provide easy access to real-time updates, while Safari adds background images, natural language search, and spatial media support. AirPlay has been upgraded to share specific windows, and a fun new 'Image Playground' app offers AI-generated animations. Enhanced AirTag features and improved writing tools make tasks easier, alongside security improvements and UI tweaks. This update streamlines user experience, boosts creative tools, and refines system features for productivity and entertainment.

Takeaways

• 😀 ChatGPT integration is now built into macOS 15.2, eliminating the need for third-party applications, though a manual confirmation is required to use ChatGPT with Siri for complex queries.
• 😀 macOS 15.2 introduces the 'Compose' feature within the Notes app, allowing users to generate and refine text with ChatGPT, including options to change tone, perspective, and style.
• 😀 Users can now reference external files (like documents or images) within the 'Compose' feature to generate text related to the content of the file.
• 😀 The Image Playground feature has been expanded, allowing users to create AI-generated images directly on macOS. The focus is on animated images, though more realistic ones can be created using ChatGPT integration.
• 😀 macOS 15.2 includes a new weather widget for the menu bar, providing quick access to current weather information and forecasts. This feature needs to be enabled in the settings.
• 😀 Safari introduces new background images for the start page, offering a fresh aesthetic for the browser's homepage.
• 😀 Safari now supports importing and exporting browsing data, making it easier for users to switch from other browsers like Google Chrome.
• 😀 New podcast category features in macOS 15.2 enhance podcast discovery, allowing users to explore and manage different podcast categories, add favorites, and share them with others.
• 😀 A new feature for AirTags allows users to share the location of their lost items with trusted parties or airlines, helping to track lost luggage in real time.
• 😀 Users can now mirror their iPhone to their Mac while using the iPhone as a hotspot, offering more flexibility when tethering devices.
• 😀 macOS 15.2 brings natural language search to TV and Music apps, allowing users to search for content with more casual, human-like queries, such as 'Harrison Ford 1990s films'.

Q & A

What is the significance of ChatGPT integration in macOS AOA 15.2?

The ChatGPT integration in macOS AOA 15.2 allows users to use AI-driven responses directly within Siri and other writing tools without needing third-party apps. It provides enhanced functionality, especially for answering complex questions that Siri might not be able to handle.

How does ChatGPT integration work with Siri in macOS AOA 15.2?

When Siri is unable to answer a question, it can delegate the request to ChatGPT. The user has to confirm the request each time, but this can be disabled in the settings for a smoother experience.

Do users need to sign in to use ChatGPT on macOS AOA 15.2?

No, users do not need to sign in to use ChatGPT. While signing in may offer additional features, it is not required to access the core functionality.

What is the new 'Compose' feature in the Notes app on macOS AOA 15.2?

'Compose' is a new tool within the Notes app that allows users to generate and refine text using ChatGPT. It can rephrase, rewrite, and even write content from scratch based on user prompts.

Can users use ChatGPT with existing text in macOS AOA 15.2?

Yes, users can select existing text and use ChatGPT to refine or rewrite it. The 'Compose' feature allows users to change the tone, add humor, or adjust the writing style based on predefined suggestions.

What is the 'Image Playground' feature in macOS AOA 15.2?

The 'Image Playground' allows users to create AI-generated images, primarily focused on animated visuals. It can also generate images from prompts or use photos from the user's camera roll as a base for creating unique visuals.

How can users access the new weather feature in macOS AOA 15.2?

The new weather feature is available in the menu bar. Users need to enable it in the Control Center settings, and it will display real-time weather details, including temperature, hourly forecast, and more.

What new features have been added to Safari in macOS AOA 15.2?

In Safari, macOS AOA 15.2 introduces new background images for the start page, the ability to import and export browsing data, and support for spatial photos and videos in Vision OS. It also features enhanced security with better HTTPS support and warnings for insecure connections.

How does the new AirPlay functionality work in macOS AOA 15.2?

AirPlay has been enhanced to allow users to share specific windows or apps instead of just the entire screen. This gives more control over what content is shared during an AirPlay session.

What improvements have been made to macOS AOA 15.2 for podcast discovery?

macOS AOA 15.2 introduces new podcast categories and a 'favorite' option, allowing users to easily manage and discover new podcasts based on interests. The interface also includes a section for top podcasts in various categories.