Apple’s Mac devices are renowned for their intuitive design and capabilities. However, it’s the lesser-known features and customization options that truly set them apart. By exploring these hidden gems, users can unlock new levels of productivity, convenience, and security. From seamless multitasking to hands-free operation, these features are designed to empower users and make their interaction with the Mac even more seamless and efficient. These tips make Black Friday 2023 even more sweet:
1. Master Spotlight Search
While many users know about Spotlight Search, few realize its full potential. Beyond simple file searches, Spotlight can perform complex calculations, provide weather updates, offer currency conversions, and even pull in data from the web. By pressing Command + Spacebar, users can unleash the full power of Spotlight and navigate their Mac with unprecedented efficiency.
2. Check Quick Look for speedy previews
Quick Look is a feature that allows users to preview files without actually opening them. By selecting a file and pressing the spacebar, users can quickly examine its contents. This is incredibly useful for browsing through images, documents, and even audio or video files. It’s a time-saving gem that can significantly expedite workflow.
3. Use Text Replacement for effortless typing
For users who find themselves frequently typing the same phrases or responses, Text Replacement can be a game-changer. By navigating to System Preferences > Keyboard > Text, users can set up custom shortcuts for longer phrases. For instance, “omw” can automatically expand to “On my way!” This feature is a productivity booster that can save substantial time in the long run.
4. Try the gestures feature
Apple’s trackpad is a marvel of engineering, offering a range of gestures that can streamline navigation. From swiping between desktops with three or four fingers to pinching to access Launchpad, mastering these gestures can significantly improve the efficiency of multitasking. Users can explore these gestures in System Preferences > Trackpad.
5. Use Split View
Split View is an invaluable feature for users looking to enhance productivity. By dragging a window to the edge of the screen, users can automatically snap it into place, allowing for seamless side-by-side multitasking. This feature is particularly useful for comparing documents, managing emails, or any task that benefits from simultaneous viewing.
6. Try out its virtual assistant
Siri is more than just a virtual assistant; it’s a powerful tool for boosting productivity. Beyond basic tasks like sending messages or setting reminders, Siri can perform complex operations like searching for files or adjusting system settings. Users can customize Siri’s capabilities in System Preferences > Siri.
7. Use desktop stacks
For users who tend to clutter their desktops, Desktop Stacks can be a game-changer. By right-clicking on the desktop and selecting “Use Stacks,” macOS will automatically group similar files, creating a more organized workspace. Users can customize this feature by right-clicking and selecting their preferred sorting criteria.
8. Try Preview for editing
Preview is often overlooked as a basic PDF viewer but offers a surprising array of editing tools. Users can add text, annotations, signatures, and even edit images directly within Preview. This can save time and eliminate the need for third-party PDF editors.
9. Master Terminal
While Terminal may seem daunting to some users, it offers unparalleled control over macOS. Power users can execute a wide range of commands to perform tasks that might be otherwise inaccessible. It’s worth exploring online resources and tutorials to unlock the full potential of Terminal.
10. Customize trackpad gestures with BetterTouchTool
For users looking to take trackpad gestures to the next level, BetterTouchTool is a must-have application. It allows for extensive customization of trackpad gestures, enabling users to create their own shortcuts and actions tailored to their specific workflow.
11. Enable live captions
Live Captions is an accessibility feature that provides real-time captions for any audio playing on the device. Beyond their primary purpose, live captions can also be used during phone calls. By enabling live captions, users can have the conversation transcribed in real-time, offering a powerful tool for those who are hard of hearing.
12. Navigate with Mission Control
Mission Control is a powerful tool for managing multiple desktops and applications. By pressing F3 or swiping up with three or four fingers (depending on trackpad settings), users can access an overview of all open windows, desktops, and spaces. This allows for quick navigation between different tasks and applications, enhancing multitasking efficiency.
13. Optimized storage
Optimized storage is a valuable feature for users who are tight on storage space. By navigating to the Apple menu > About This Mac > Storage, users can click on “Manage” to access a range of tools for optimizing storage. This includes options to offload unused apps, store files in iCloud, and automatically empty the trash, ensuring that the Mac runs smoothly even with limited disk space.
14. Enhance security with FileVault
FileVault is a powerful encryption tool that provides an added layer of security for user data. By navigating to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > FileVault, users can enable full-disk encryption. This ensures that all data on the Mac’s internal drive is protected, even if the device falls into the wrong hands.
15. Enable parental controls
For families with young users, parental controls can be an invaluable feature. By navigating to System Preferences > Screen Time > Content & Privacy, parents can set restrictions on the type of content that can be accessed, limit screen time, and even control which apps can be used. This feature provides a level of control and peace of mind for parents.
Apple’s range of Mac devices, including the Mac Pro, Mac Mini, M2 Mac Mini, Mac Mini with M2 Pro, 14-inch Mac, 16-inch Mac, and 15-inch MacBook Air, are versatile tools for both casual users and professionals. By delving into these lesser-known features and customization options, users can significantly enhance their productivity, streamline their workflow, and unlock the full potential of their Mac experience. Look out for the upcoming offers this Black Friday sale season to be able to save some while upgrading the tech setup.
