Apple has released macOS Sequoia 15.2, a significant update that introduces a variety of features aimed at enhancing productivity, creativity, and overall usability. With improvements spanning multiple apps and tools, this update offers something for everyone, whether you’re a creative professional, a casual user, or someone who values smart, integrated technology. Here’s a deep dive into what macOS Sequoia 15.2 brings to the table.
Apple Intelligence Features
One of the standout highlights of macOS Sequoia 15.2 is the introduction of new Apple Intelligence features, designed to harness the power of AI and machine learning. These tools aim to simplify tasks, inspire creativity, and improve workflow efficiency.
At the center of this update is Image Playground, a groundbreaking app that enables users to create unique images by combining concepts, descriptions, or even personal photos. With this tool, users can experiment with various styles, ranging from playful animations to sophisticated illustrations. The app offers a seamless experience, integrating directly with Messages, Freeform, and a variety of third-party applications. The syncing feature ensures that all creations are stored in iCloud, making them accessible on any Apple device. Whether you’re looking to create a quick sketch or a polished digital masterpiece, Image Playground provides a versatile and intuitive platform.
The integration of ChatGPT is another major step forward for macOS. Through Siri or the Writing Tools app, users can now leverage ChatGPT to assist with a wide range of tasks. Siri has been enhanced to provide intelligent responses using ChatGPT’s capabilities, offering more in-depth answers and contextual information. Writing Tools allows users to compose text with ChatGPT’s help, whether it’s drafting an email, brainstorming ideas, or even writing poetry. For privacy-conscious users, Apple has ensured that no ChatGPT account is required for basic functionality, and requests remain anonymous. However, users who sign in to a ChatGPT account gain access to additional features, with all requests handled under OpenAI’s data policies.
An innovative addition to Writing Tools is the “describe your change” feature. This allows users to suggest specific formats for text adjustments, such as rewriting content as a poem, converting casual language into a professional tone, or simplifying complex sentences for clarity.
Enhancements to Built-in Apps
The Photos app has been updated to include the Favorites album in the Utilities collection. Additionally, users can now clear the history of Recently Viewed and Recently Shared albums.
Safari introduces new background images for the Start Page, automatic upgrades to secure HTTPS connections, and simplified options for importing and exporting history, bookmarks, and passwords.
The Find My app now allows users to securely share the location of an AirTag or other Find My network accessory with trusted contacts.
Improvements in Entertainment and Productivity
Entertainment and productivity have also seen significant improvements in macOS Sequoia 15.2. The Podcasts app now allows users to favorite specific categories, such as technology, comedy, or wellness. This personalization ensures that users receive tailored recommendations that align with their interests. The updated Search page further enhances the listening experience by showcasing curated collections and highlighting relevant shows.
The Stocks app has introduced a new feature that displays pre-market price quotes for NASDAQ and NYSE tickers. This allows users to track market activity before the trading day begins, providing valuable insights for investors and finance enthusiasts.
A new Weather widget has been added to the Menu Bar, offering real-time weather updates at a glance. Clicking on the widget provides quick access to detailed forecasts, including hourly updates, precipitation chances, and temperature trends. This small but impactful addition makes it easier for users to plan their day without needing to open a separate app.
For presenters and multitaskers, the new Presenter Preview feature is a welcome enhancement. This tool allows users to choose what to share—whether it’s a specific app or the entire screen—before connecting to an external display or using AirPlay. This added layer of control ensures a smoother and more professional presentation experience.
Other additions include natural language search capabilities in Apple Music and Apple TV apps. Users can now describe what they’re looking for in conversational terms, such as “movies from the 90s with Tom Hanks” or “upbeat workout playlists.” News+ subscribers also have access to Sudoku puzzles in three difficulty levels, adding a touch of entertainment to their subscription.
Features Not Yet Available
While macOS Sequoia 15.2 introduces a wealth of new features, a couple of highly anticipated additions are still missing. Genmoji, a customizable avatar tool that debuted in iOS and iPadOS, has not yet made its way to macOS. This feature allows users to create personalized digital characters, which can be used in Messages, social media, and more. Its absence on macOS is a disappointment for users who have already embraced it on their other Apple devices.
The redesigned Mail app, which is currently exclusive to iPhones, is another feature that has not yet been implemented on macOS. This update includes a cleaner interface and new tools for managing email, such as advanced filtering and one-tap unsubscribe options. These features are expected to arrive in future macOS updates, bringing even greater consistency across Apple’s ecosystem.
