15 Hidden macOS Sequoia Features Apple Didn’t Reveal: What You Need to Know

Hidden Gems in macOS Sequoia: 15 Features Apple Didn’t Mention at WWDC 2024

Apple’s latest operating system, macOS Sequoia, unveiled at the WWDC 2024 keynote, promises a suite of innovative features that are bound to enhance the user experience. While the major updates like iPhone Mirroring and Windows Tiling have understandably stolen the spotlight, Apple’s left some intriguing additions off the stage. These lesser-known features, currently accessible in the Developer Beta, pack quite a punch and are worth exploring.

After spending a few days with macOS Sequoia on my MacBook Air, I’ve stumbled upon several hidden features that Apple didn’t announce. These little gems, tucked away in the OS, can significantly improve your workflow, boost privacy, and even add a bit of fun to your daily tasks. So without further ado, here are 15 of the most noteworthy macOS Sequoia features you might have missed.

1. Video Viewer and Automatic Picture-in-Picture in Safari: Safari in macOS Sequoia introduces the Video Viewer, allowing you to bring any web video front and center with full system playback controls. Even better, if you switch tabs while a video is playing, Safari will automatically enable Picture-in-Picture mode—no manual intervention required.
2. Rotate Wi-Fi Address for Enhanced Privacy: Apple has quietly replaced the Private Wi-Fi Address feature with Rotate Wi-Fi Address. This option adds an extra layer of security by randomly rotating your device’s Wi-Fi address, making it nearly impossible for anyone on the same network to track your device.
3. New Highlighter in the Notes App: The Notes app now features a highlighter tool with five color options: purple, pink, orange, mint, and blue. This subtle enhancement allows you to emphasize important text effortlessly, although Apple hasn’t yet offered the ability to choose custom colors.
Photo via Apple Inc. // Some of the best features of macOS Sequoia, as outlined by Apple during their WWDC '24 keynote.
4. Conversion Tools in the Calculator App The Calculator app in macOS Sequoia isn’t just for basic math anymore. It now includes a conversion feature that allows you to instantly switch between different units of measurement, including currency, temperature, and even data. Plus, it now has a backspace button—a long-overdue addition.
5. AirDrop Progress Bar: File transfers via AirDrop now include a handy progress bar, giving you a visual cue of how much longer you’ll be waiting for that large file to land on your device.
6. Retro Wallpapers and Dynamic Screen Savers: macOS Sequoia brings a splash of nostalgia with retro-themed wallpapers featuring classic Mac icons. Complementing these are dynamic screen savers that adjust based on the time of day, ensuring your desktop always feels fresh.
7. Background Replacements in Video Calls: Need to tidy up your background before a video call? Sequoia has you covered with its new Background Replacements feature, which works across FaceTime, Zoom, and other video conferencing apps.
8. Create and Manage Reminders in the Calendar App: Reminders are now integrated into the Calendar app, allowing you to create, view, and edit reminders directly within your schedule. This streamlined approach makes managing your tasks and events more intuitive.
9. Quick Facts in Apple Maps: Planning a trip? Apple Maps in macOS Sequoia now shows Quick Facts for popular locations and national parks, providing you with valuable insights without needing to dive into lengthy web searches.
Photo via MacStories // One of the best features on macOS Sequoia is the new iPhone Mirroring feature.
10. System Settings Defaults to General Tab: A small but thoughtful change—System Settings now defaults to the General tab, making essential settings more accessible without unnecessary clicks.
11. Revamped App Store: The App Store in macOS Sequoia sports a sleek new design with updated icons and a modernized categories tab, enhancing your app discovery experience.
12. iMessage Scheduling & Text Effects: Sequoia brings iMessage Scheduling to the Mac, allowing you to send texts at a specific time. You can also add animated text effects to your messages, giving your communication a bit more flair.
13. Solve Math Calculations in Notes: The Notes app now supports real-time math calculations, making it easier than ever to crunch numbers without leaving the app.
14. Redesigned iCloud Section: The iCloud section in System Settings has been redesigned with a grid layout, making it simpler to manage your cloud storage and see what’s taking up space.
15. Guest Access in the Home App: The Home app now allows you to manage guest access and control electricity usage with new tracking features. You can even integrate robot vacuum cleaners into your smart home setup.

Behind the Hidden Features

Apple has a habit of sneaking in subtle improvements with every macOS update, and Sequoia is no exception. The changes might seem small at first glance, but they collectively make the OS more intuitive and powerful. Features like the Rotate Wi-Fi Address and automatic Picture-in-Picture in Safari demonstrate Apple’s ongoing focus on privacy and user experience. It’s these under-the-radar enhancements that often make the biggest difference in day-to-day use.

As Apple continues to evolve macOS, it’s clear that they’re focusing on both the flashy and the functional. The hidden features in Sequoia may not have received any stage time at WWDC, but they’re the kind of updates that users will come to appreciate the more they interact with them. So, next time you update your Mac, take a moment to explore the little things—because, as always with Apple, the devil is in the details.

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Flynn Lo Faro

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Flynn has been covering technology for over a decade, with a deep focus on all things Apple. As the Editor-in-Chief of Apple Scoop, Flynn ensures the team delivers the most accurate and up-to-date information on Apple news, rumors, and product releases. His passion for tech journalism and editorial expertise guide the site’s vision and maintain its high standards.

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