Apple’s latest operating system, macOS Sequoia, has features that make your Mac more powerful and intuitive than ever. However, several hidden gems can significantly enhance your user experience beyond the obvious enhancements and shiny new tools. Here are some of the best-hidden features of macOS Sequoia that you need to know about.

1. Quick Note enhancements

Quick Note in macOS Sequoia takes your note-taking game to the next level. This hidden feature allows you to jot down notes instantly, no matter what app you use. It’s a powerful tool for capturing ideas on the fly.

Additionally, it is a game-changer for productivity. Whether researching, brainstorming, or just jotting down a reminder, instant access to a note-taking tool without disrupting your workflow can save you time and effort.

1. Hover your cursor in the bottom right corner of the screen until the Quick Note pop-up appears.

2. Click on the Quick Note icon to open a new note.

3. Start typing your note. You can also drag links or images directly into the note for quick reference.

4. Access your Quick Notes later in the Notes app under the Quick Notes section.

Also read: Best sticky note apps for Mac.

2. Focus Modes customization

Focus Modes in macOS Sequoia help you manage notifications and distractions by allowing you to create custom modes tailored to different activities.

They provide a way to maintain concentration and productivity. Furthermore, by customizing these modes, you can ensure that only the most important alerts reach you when you need to stay focused.

1. Navigate to the Apple logo, choose System Settings, and select Focus.

2. Click the + button to create a new focus mode.

3. Name your mode and choose which apps and people can send notifications.

4. Schedule the mode to activate automatically during specific times or when you open certain apps.

3. Universal Control

Universal Control allows you to use a single mouse and keyboard seamlessly across multiple Apple devices. It simplifies the workflow for users with multiple Apple devices. Instead of switching between keyboards and trackpads, you can move between your Mac, iPad, and other devices effortlessly, dragging and dropping files as needed.

1. Make sure that all of your devices are updated to the latest software versions.

2. On your Mac, go to System Settings, select Displays, and click Universal Control.

3. Ensure that the box next to Allow your cursor and keyboard to move between any nearby Mac or iPad is checked.

4. Finally, position your devices next to each other, and your cursor should now move between screens.

Also read: How to factory reset a MacBook or Mac.

4. Mail privacy protection

macOS Sequoia introduces Mail Privacy Protection to prevent senders from knowing when you open an email. This feature is crucial for protecting your privacy. Blocking tracking pixels prevents marketers from knowing your email habits and stops them from collecting data without your consent.

1. Open the Mail app on your Mac.

2. Go to Mail, choose Preferences, and head to Privacy.

3. Check the box for Protect Mail Activity.

5. Improved Battery Usage reports

The updated battery usage reports in macOS Sequoia provide detailed insights into your Mac’s battery health and consumption.

Understanding how your battery is being used can help you manage power more efficiently, extending the lifespan of your Mac and ensuring it’s always ready when you need it.

1. Click the Apple logo in the top left corner of the screen and choose System Settings.

2. On the left side of the pane, select Battery.

3. On the pane’s right side, click Battery Usage to see detailed reports, including usage history and apps that consume the most power.

Also read: How to start Mac in Recovery Mode.

6. Enhanced Finder capabilities

Finder in macOS Sequoia has been improved with new organizational tools and shortcuts that streamline file management.

Efficient file management is essential for productivity. The new Finder features make organizing, finding, and managing your files easier, saving you time and reducing frustration.

1. Open the Finder app.

2. Use the Quick Actions menu by right-clicking a file for options like creating PDFs, rotating images, and more.

3. Try the new Tags to categorize files and find them quickly.

4. Use the Group By option in the View menu to organize files by criteria like date or kind.

7. Redesigned Safari extensions

Safari in macOS Sequoia supports a new generation of more powerful and integrated extensions than ever.

Extensions enhance your browsing experience by adding functionality directly into Safari. The redesigned system allows for more complex and useful extensions, improving how you interact with the web.

1. Open Safari browser on your device.

2. Go to Safari in the top bar, click Settings, and choose Extensions.

3. Browse the Extensions Gallery to find and install extensions that suit your needs.

4. Manage your extensions directly from the Extensions tab.

Also read: How to set up a new Mac.

Get the best experience!

Exploring these hidden features of macOS Sequoia can greatly enhance your user experience, making your Mac more efficient and enjoyable to use. From productivity boosts with Quick Note and Focus Modes to privacy enhancements in Mail, macOS Sequoia has a wealth of tools waiting to be discovered. Dive in and make the most of your Mac with these powerful hidden features of macOS Sequoia.