The latest version of OS X for Mac
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OS X 10.10 Yosemite is the latest version of Apple’s operating system for Mac and brings OS X and iOS closer than ever with much improved integration with iOS apps and new versions of Safari, Mail and Spotlight.
iOS and OS X working as one
There are many new improvements in Yosemite with some features dropped from Mavericks. One of the biggest improvements has been with Spotlight which is now much more powerful. Spotlight not only searches apps and files but even Wikipedia, delivering more specific results from a variety of sources.
Meanwhile iPhoto has disappeared and is replaced by a faster slicker app called Photo. iTunes has also been through an interface upgrade with a slicker navigation menu although there may be more changes when the final version is released. Mail has been improved and now lets you send large attachments more easily with support for annotating documents and fill out forms within email messages.
The most significant enhancement is switching between iOS and OS which has been improved by Continuity – a new feature which detects when iOS and OS X are on the same network and lets you change between the two far more easily (not available in the beta version). This encompasses a host of new features and usability improvements.
AirDrop for example now works between iOS and Mac with a new “Handoff” feature making it incredibly easy to send files between devices when they are within range. Yosemite also allows you to make and receive calls on your Mac via your iPhone including the ability to send and receive text messages. Finally, iCloud Drive integration provides yet another way to exchange data between your iOS device and Mac.
Feels slicker, especially when syncing with your iOS device
Yosemite has more translucent features than Mavericks giving it a slightly slicker and cleaner feel but the big difference is the seamless integration between Mac and iOS devices. For those that regularly use or sync their Mac and iOS device together, Yosemite makes life much easier. Especially for those that want call and SMS access from their Mac, upgrading to Yosemite will be worth it alone.
OS X Yosemite has also been given a much “Flatter” look and feel. Those that like their OS X a bit more 3D and flashy may be a bit disappointed with this but it does give OS X a crisper, cleaner and overall less fussy look and feel. Other visual enhancements include a redesigned Dock menu bar and a new “dark mode” for working at night to reduce eye strain.
As a bonus for upgrading, Yosemite users can also enjoy the iWork suite of components for free. Apple has given iWork a new Yosemite inspired look which includes
OS X and iOS closer than ever before
For those that want ever closer integration between OS X and iOS, Yosemite is a big improvement. For those that want more innovation in OS X itself, there may be disappointment but Yosemite is another step in bringing the two platforms ever closer together.
