At WWDC, Apple introduced macOS Sonoma and revealed many exciting features. However, Intel Macs are denied access to some important features. This article highlights five exclusive features of macOS Sonoma that are only available for Apple Silicon Macs.
While macOS Sonoma brings improvements to the entire ecosystem, certain features are designed specifically for the powerful Apple Silicon architecture. This creates differences between Intel Macs and Apple Silicon Macs that are reflected in the exclusive features of macOS Sonoma.
Efficient work and impressive features: Screen sharing and Presenter Overlay in macOS Sonoma
- Presenter Overlay: Thanks to the Neural Engine, Sonoma enables Apple Silicon Macs to utilize "Lift Subject from Background." This allows the webcam feed to be overlaid on the content of a presentation, creating an immersive presentation experience.
- Screen sharing: With the enhanced Media Engine, Apple Silicon Macs benefit from simplified screen sharing. This speeds up sharing over high bandwidth and facilitates communication.
- Abbreviated wake word “Siri”: Available only for Apple Silicon Macs and AirPods Pro 2, the new abbreviated wake word “Siri” enables even more convenient use of voice control.
- Gaming Mode: Apple Silicon Macs' SoC design gives them preferential treatment in Gaming Mode, giving higher priority to the CPU and GPU while reducing latency for wireless accessories.
- Made-for-iPhone hearing aids: These can pair directly with Apple Silicon Macs, excluding those with the base M1 chip, enabling seamless integration and enhanced hearing experiences.
Compatibility: These Mac devices are supported
macOS Sonoma is supported on the following Mac models:
- iMac 2019 or newer
- iMac Pro
- MacBook Air 2018 or newer
- MacBook Pro 2018 or newer
- Mac Pro 2019 or later
- Mac Studio
- Mac mini 2018 or later
Conclusion
With macOS Sonoma and the ongoing development of Apple Silicon, more and more features will be exclusive to Apple Silicon Macs. The list of supported Macs shows which models can use the new operating system. The trend is expected to continue in the future until Intel chipsets are completely excluded from macOS. macOS Sonoma is expected to be released in fall 2023 and marks another step towards a new era for Macs. Are you looking for new accessories? Then take a look in our Amazon Storefront - there you will find numerous products from leading providers, also for HomeKit and Co.! (Image: Apple)
