Apple Releases macOS Sequoia, iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, and More: What’s New?

Apple has rolled out macOS Sequoia as the latest software updates for supported Mac computers, alongside iPadOS 18, watchOS 11 and tvOS 18. These updates introduce new features and customization options to Apple devices, while future updates will add support for Apple Intelligence — new artificial intelligence (AI)-powered features — on iPhone 15 Pro models, the new iPhone 16 lineup, and select tablets and Mac models with Apple’s M-series chipsets. These software updates were first previewed at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2024).

Here are some of the most notable changes coming to macOS Sequoia, iOS 18, watchOS 11, tvOS 18, and visionOS 2. You can update eligible devices to these software versions, but it’s a good idea to back up important data before installing major operating system updates. You can also read more about Apple’s iOS 18 update rolling out to eligible smartphones.

macOS Sequoia

After updating to macOS Sequoia, users will have access to a new iPhone Mirroring feature that allows them to control and interact with their smartphone from their computer. macOS finally supports window tiling via drag and drop controls, eliminating the need for third-party apps. Safari has been updated with a new Reading Mode and the ability to show relevant location and media information while browsing.

macOS finally brings native support for window tiles with shortcuts
Photo Credit: Apple

The company also introduced support for Apple Pay on third-party browsers with macOS Sequoia, while Game Porting Toolkit 2 is expected to let users play more games designed for Windows. Mac users will also be able to mirror their iPhone notifications, while taking advantage of updates to the Messages app including text effects, message scheduling, and emoji reactions to messages.

iPadOS 18 and tvOS 18

Like iOS 18, Apple has added support for customization with a redesigned Control Center, tinted icons, and home screen widgets. Users can also access the new Messages features available on macOS, while Game Mode is now available on iPadOS 18 with relevant optimizations while games are running. Smart Script is available in the Notes app, along with collapsible sections. Using an Apple Pencil to solve problems in Math Notes is also accessible via the Calculator and Notes app.

Meanwhile, Apple introduced support for 21:9 video format with the latest tvOS 18 update, along with support for Siri on the device. Users can also launch new screensavers on Apple TV using Portrait photos in their iCloud library. tvOS 18 also adds support for robot vacuums in the Home app, as well as guest access for specific devices, the ability to monitor your home’s electricity usage, and hands-free unlocking using ultra-wideband (UWB) locks.

watchOS 11

A new Vitals app on watchOS 11 gives users insights based on their recent health stats, while a new Training Load feature lets them know when they’re pushing their fitness limits. The update also adds support for interactive widgets, along with an improved smart stack with Live Activities.

watchOS 11 also improves the Photos watch face, Apple said. Users will be able to access the Check In security feature from their smartwatch, while the Translate app is useful when traveling. Apple Watch Series 10 owners will also get access to sleep apnea tracking in 150 countries and regions, the company said.

visionOS 2

The Apple Vision Pro has only been available for a few months — it first went on sale in the US earlier this year — but the company has already released the first major software update to its spatial computer. The device now lets users take or capture spatial photographs that can be viewed on the headset. Meanwhile, the home view (or home screen) can finally be rearranged with visionOS 2.

With visionOS 2, users can convert 2D images from photos into spatial photos
Photo Credit: Apple

Users also get access to new gestures on the Vision Pro, while SharePlay for photos has been added, along with support for using a connected mouse. Developers get access to new Volumetric APIs, Enterprise APIs, and TableTopKit to build more capabilities into their apps for the Apple Vision Pro that will be supported on visionOS 2.

How to update your devices

It’s always a good idea to back up important data before installing a major software update. Once you’ve done that, you can follow the steps below to update your Mac computer, Apple Watch, or iPad to macOS Sequoia, watchOS 11, and iPadOS 18 respectively.