At this meeting, held on the 2nd of September, we talked about some of the smaller features coming in macOS Ventura, recent Apple news and members raised several topics.
macOS Ventura Small Features
Robert presented some of the smaller interesting features and changes testers have found in the public beta versions of macOS Ventura. These included:
- Live captions adds subtitles to to many video sources including live FaceTime calls.
- The redesigned System Settings (renamed from System Preferences) which includes system information that was previously in About This Mac.
- The new-to-Mac Clock app will show running timers in the menu bar even if the app is closed.
- Spotlight improvements include quick actions, searching images and Quick Look support.
- Safari will now allow website settings and extensions to be synced between devices.
- Music playlists now have sorting options and an easy to find search feature.
- An iPhone can be used as a Mac microphone.
- Mail will warn you if you mention an attachment in a message but don’t attach anything.
- Preview has a dedicated form filling tool.
Most of these features were found in this Mac Rumors thread and iGeek article.
News
We discussed recent Apple news including:
- The Adonit Neo Pro stylus, a less expensive alternative to the Apple Pencil with many of the same features but not pressure sensitivity.
- An Apple employee threatened with termination over a viral TikTok advice video.
- Recent changes to the anti-malware protection built into macOS.
- iOS 12.5.6 with important security fixes for older iPhones.
- MacBooks being included in Apple’s Self Service Repair Programme.
- Instagram and Facebook iOS apps may track web activity via their in-app browsers.
- The redesign of the battery indicator in iOS 16.
- Apple will hold a “Far Out” event on 7th of September where new iPhone announcements are expected.
Member topics & questions
- Members talked about a widespread power cut in Basildon and Wickford caused by a substation fire.
- Alan asked about websites being labeled “Not Secure” in Safari when they are not encrypted (don’t use HTTPS).
- DaveK demonstrated how to add additional windows to an app on the iPad and how to display two windows in split screen view.
- Robert showed how on macOS items can be dragged from Control Centre onto the menu bar for easy access. To remove an icon no longer required, hold down the command key and drag the item off the menu bar. Holding command also allows you to re-arrange menu bar icons.