High Sierra is an update of MacOS which focuses mostly on back-end developments and a higher level of user security. As such, this operating system lays a foundation for future upgrades.
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Cupertino, California — Apple today announced that macOS Sierra, the latest major release of the world's most advanced desktop operating system, is now available as a free update. MacOS Sierra brings Siri to the Mac with intelligent and helpful features users know and love from iPhone and iPad, along with all-new capabilities designed specifically for use on the desktop. If you can run Sierra, you can run High Sierra. How to upgrade to macOS High Sierra. Based on the results of menu: About This Mac panel, compare the introduction timeframe in parenthesis (e.g. Making music with macbook pro. Late-2013) to the models in How to upgrade to macOS Mojave. The Mac App Store may block your access to High Sierra if your hardware supports the Mojave.
In essence, High Sierra took what was good with Sierra and developed it into a more comprehensive software.
High Sierra emphasizes the already-existing benefits of MacOS previous system, Sierra. There are few bells and whistles, but the changes are noticeable and positive. The Apple file system is the most significant feature it brought. It enables the storage and encryption of a large number of files. Thus, it boosts performance and helps manage device memory issues.
Apple also introduced new formats for video and photos in this version. These formats compress data - that's a benefit as files can get huge with ever-rising resolutions. They added support for virtual reality headsets as well.
Besides that, when it comes to Safari, Mac search engine, there are some notable improvements with the update. The users can now control annoying auto-play videos, prevent tracking, and more. There are also notification controls, and you will experience a boost in performance, too.
The most noticeable changes took place in Apple's Photo App, though. It went through a total revamp both visually in its interface and terms of tools and functions available. Many other discreet changes happened all over the system.
Where can you run this program?
If you're running Sierra on your Mac, you will be able to run this one as well.
Is there a better alternative?
Yes. Mojave, the newest version of MacOS, brought even more improved features to the table. However, if you can't run it on your device, this is the second best.
Our take
High Sierra is not the shiniest upgrade Apple brought, but it's one that sets the stage for new upgrades to come. Even out of that context, it's a great operating system.
Should you download it?
Yes, if your device can support it. The new options and better security settings are worth getting.
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