Apple releases macOS 27 Golden Gate: 7 new features to try

On September 14, Apple officially launched macOS 27 Golden Gate, bringing several new features to Mac devices. Released at WWDC in June, the developer beta has been available for months. While the update doesn't offer any major surprises, it does provide users with improvements both large and small. Here are the top features to try after updating to macOS 27 Golden Gate if you have a compatible Mac device with Siri AI:

1. Siri AI with Google Gemini: The updated Siri is now powered by Google's Gemini and available as a standalone app for iPhone, iPad, and Mac. It can generate text, make writing suggestions, send emails, analyze visual content, answer questions based on the user's screen, access apps, remember conversations, and customize its voice. Users can also change Siri's voice pitch, tone, and pacing.

2. Spatial Reframing: This new AI tool enables users to adjust the angle of photos after they've been taken within the Photos app. It can clean up and even extend photos, providing new ways to edit and enhance images.

3. Enhanced child safety and parental controls: For families with children or teenagers using Macs, macOS 27 Golden Gate introduces new parental controls. Parents can set screen-time schedules, view quick usage statistics, and receive automatic messages when kids attempt to access new websites using the Ask to Browse tool.

4. Group tabs in Safari: Users can organize their numerous tabs into groups, like "Vacation planning" or "Work stuff," making it easier to manage and access their browsing sessions.

5. Describe a Shortcut: Shortcuts, often underutilized, can now be created by describing the desired workflow to Siri AI and macOS. The system will then set up the Shortcut for the user.

6. Improved Maps experience: macOS 27 Golden Gate offers more detailed information in Maps, including architectural details and individual tree shapes. The Flyover feature uses aerial imagery with Visual Intelligence models for sharp, stunning details.

7. System improvements: Apple promises faster AirDrop transfers, quicker file browsing, and improved loading times for apps and websites in macOS 27 Golden Gate. Additionally, refinements to Liquid Glass aim to address some visibility issues previously experienced in iOS 26 and macOS 26.