Apple has rolled out Public Beta 3 for macOS Sequoia 15.1 and iPadOS 18.1, bringing some exciting new features that enhance the user experience across Mac and iPad devices. As always, Apple’s beta programs allow users to get an early taste of upcoming updates while contributing feedback that helps refine the final release. We look closer at the notable features included in this latest public beta.
1. Enhanced Widgets on macOS Sequoia 15.1
macOS Sequoia 15.1 continues to push the envelope with its improved widget system. Public Beta 3 introduces interactive widgets, allowing users to perform actions directly from the widget, such as managing tasks, controlling media, or toggling system settings. Users can now place widgets anywhere on their desktop, blurring the lines between widgets and traditional apps. For instance, a weather widget can be fully expanded for detailed forecasts, or a music widget can let you control playback without opening the Music app.
2. Pro Mode for iPadOS 18.1
With iPadOS 18.1, Apple is advancing its efforts to make the iPad a true laptop replacement. The Pro Mode introduced in Public Beta 3 boosts the performance of iPads with the M1 and M2 chips, allowing for faster multitasking and more fluid transitions between apps. This feature is ideal for power users running resource-heavy apps like video editors or graphic design tools. Pro Mode is also said to improve battery management, dynamically adjusting performance based on usage patterns.
3. Universal Control Enhancements
Apple’s Universal Control, a favorite among Mac and iPad users, gets even better in this beta. Improved syncing between macOS Sequoia and iPadOS 18.1 means users can now drag and drop files between devices with increased speed and accuracy. Public Beta 3 also adds customizable gestures to control navigation and multitasking across devices seamlessly. This creates a more fluid experience for those who regularly switch between their iPad and Mac for work or creative projects.
4. Revamped Split View on iPadOS 18.1
iPadOS 18.1 enhances multitasking further with an improved Split View feature. In Public Beta 3, Split View becomes more flexible and responsive, allowing for better window management and quicker resizing. Users can now drag apps into specific portions of the screen and snap windows into place. This update makes the iPad’s multitasking experience feel more like a desktop, empowering users to manage multiple tasks with greater efficiency.
5. New Safari Features
Public Beta 3 includes several Safari improvements for both macOS and iPadOS. Apple has enhanced tab management by introducing tab groups that can be shared across devices and allowing users to rename groups for better organization. Safari also features improved privacy protections, with more robust tracking prevention to protect user data while browsing. On iPads, Safari Extensions now work seamlessly across both desktop and mobile versions, further enhancing productivity.
6. Smarter AirDrop
AirDrop sees a significant upgrade in this public beta. With smart proximity detection, your Mac or iPad can prioritize AirDrop connections based on how close devices are, reducing the need for manual selection. This makes file sharing between devices faster and more intuitive. Additionally, you can now set a timer to send files at a scheduled time, improving the flexibility of the AirDrop feature.
7. Refined Focus Modes
Public Beta 3 brings tweaks to Focus Modes, with more granular control over notifications and app behaviors. Users can now customize Focus settings across multiple devices, making it easier to manage notifications during work, sleep, or downtime. This update improves sync across macOS and iPadOS, ensuring consistent Focus profiles regardless of which device you’re using.
8. Improved Battery Health Monitoring on macOS
A small but significant update for macOS Sequoia 15.1 is the enhanced battery health management feature. Users can now view more detailed insights into their battery’s performance, including specific app power consumption, allowing for better management of battery life. The system will also suggest energy-saving tips based on your usage patterns.
Final Thoughts
Public Beta 3 for macOS Sequoia 15.1 and iPadOS 18.1 continues Apple’s commitment to refining its ecosystem for performance, productivity, and user experience. These updates, from enhanced multitasking on iPads to improved widget functionality on Macs, show Apple’s effort to blur the line between devices, creating a seamless workflow across its ecosystem. If you’re part of Apple’s beta program, these new features are worth exploring. Just remember, as always with beta software, bugs and glitches may still be present, so proceed with caution.