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macOS 15 Sequoia, Apple’s newest operating system, brings a suite of tools that redefine productivity, privacy, and overall user experience. While the headline features—like improved FaceTime and Stage Manager—grab attention, hidden gems embedded within the OS can revolutionize how you use your Mac every day.
Here are five hidden features in macOS 15 Sequoia that you should explore right now to make the most of your Mac.
Table of contents
- 1. iMessage Scheduling and Text Effects
- 2. Rotating Wi-Fi Address for Enhanced Privacy
- 3. Built-in Math Calculations in Notes
- 4. Quick Facts in Apple Maps
- 5. Custom Backgrounds for Video Calls
- 6. Enhanced Safari Experience with AI Features
- 7. Improved Spotlight Search
- Tips to Make the Most of macOS 15 Hidden Features
- Conclusion
1. iMessage Scheduling and Text Effects
Managing communication across time zones or busy schedules can be tricky. Thankfully, macOS 15 introduces a much-awaited feature: iMessage scheduling. This allows you to draft a message and set it to send later, ensuring it arrives at the perfect moment. Additionally, Apple has added fun text effects that let you send messages with confetti, balloons, or other engaging animations.
Here’s how to schedule messages:
- Open the Messages app and compose your message.
- Long-press the send button to access the scheduling menu.
- Choose your desired time and date, and your message will be sent automatically.
This feature is a game-changer for everything from sending birthday wishes to organizing professional reminders.
Text Effects Bonus:
Use celebratory effects by typing trigger words like “Happy Birthday” or “Congratulations” and letting the app add fireworks or balloons automatically. It’s an effortless way to make your messages more engaging.
2. Rotating Wi-Fi Address for Enhanced Privacy
Privacy concerns are at an all-time high in today’s digital age. One of the standout macOS 15 hidden features is the introduction of rotating Wi-Fi addresses. This functionality periodically changes your MAC (Media Access Control) address, ensuring that your online activities remain private.
Why is this useful?
Public Wi-Fi networks often expose users to trackers and potential hacking attempts. By enabling this feature, you safeguard your browsing sessions and significantly reduce the risk of data leakage.
Steps to activate:
- Navigate to System Settings > Network > Wi-Fi.
- Select your Wi-Fi network and toggle the option for Use Private Wi-Fi Address.
This small adjustment makes a big difference, particularly for frequent travelers or remote workers who rely on public hotspots. Combined with a VPN, it creates a robust shield for your online privacy.
3. Built-in Math Calculations in Notes
For students, researchers, or professionals juggling multiple tasks, the Notes app in macOS 15 becomes a secret weapon. With built-in math calculation capabilities, you no longer need to toggle between a calculator app and your notes.
Here’s how it works:
- Open the Notes app and start typing equations directly within a note.
- Add an equal sign (=), and the app will instantly calculate the result.
Use this feature for everything from simple sums to more complex calculations.
Imagine brainstorming in Notes for an upcoming project, jotting down budgets, or solving equations in one place. This feature isn’t just convenient—it keeps your workflow seamless and error-free.
Pro Tip:
Combine this feature with Quick Notes, which allows you to access your notes from anywhere on macOS with a simple swipe or shortcut. Your calculations remain readily available no matter where you work.
4. Quick Facts in Apple Maps
Navigating unfamiliar areas becomes more enriching with Quick Facts in Apple Maps. This feature brings contextual information about landmarks, attractions, and historical points directly into the app. Travelers and urban explorers alike will appreciate the wealth of knowledge that accompanies every journey.
How to access Quick Facts:
- Open Apple Maps and search for a location.
- Tap on the location to view details.
- The Quick Facts section provides concise, insightful tidbits.
From famous monuments to hidden gems, Apple Maps transforms into an educational tool, offering real-time insights without the need to open a browser.
Travel Hack:
Pair this feature with Guides in Maps, which curates must-visit spots in any city. Together, they create a comprehensive travel assistant that enhances both efficiency and learning.
5. Custom Backgrounds for Video Calls
Whether you’re presenting during a high-stakes meeting or catching up with friends, the environment matters. macOS 15 hidden features include customizable backgrounds for video calls, ensuring you can maintain privacy or add a professional touch to your setting.
To use this feature:
- Open your preferred video conferencing app (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams).
- Navigate to Video Settings > Backgrounds.
- Choose from pre-loaded virtual backgrounds or upload your own image.
This feature works seamlessly across platforms, making it a universal tool for maintaining professionalism, reducing distractions, or just having fun with themed calls.
Pro Tip:
macOS optimizes lighting and sharpness for these backgrounds, ensuring you remain the focal point even in low-light settings.
6. Enhanced Safari Experience with AI Features
Safari in macOS 15 gets smarter with a built-in summarization feature powered by AI. This tool extracts key details from web pages, helping users digest large chunks of information quickly. Whether researching for work or browsing for leisure, you save time and effort.
Another new addition is Safari’s improved password management. The standalone Passwords app now centralizes all your login details. It supports autofill, password strength checks, and even generates secure credentials for new accounts.
How to Use these features:
- Enable Safari’s Reader Mode for distraction-free browsing.
- Access the Passwords app from System Settings to organize your credentials and ensure they’re always protected.
These updates make Safari not just a browser, but a productivity tool tailored for modern needs.
7. Improved Spotlight Search
Spotlight, macOS’s built-in search tool, receives a significant upgrade in macOS 15. The redesigned interface is more intuitive and now integrates AI suggestions, providing users with smarter, more relevant results.
Here’s what’s new:
- Enhanced File Previews: Get quick snapshots of documents, photos, and videos without opening them.
- Natural Language Search: Simply type “show my files from last week” to retrieve specific results.
- Live App Previews: Interact with certain app features directly within Spotlight.
Spotlight isn’t just for files anymore—it’s your go-to assistant for everything from reminders to app integrations.
Tips to Make the Most of macOS 15 Hidden Features
To maximize these macOS 15 hidden features, keep these tips in mind:
- Regular Updates: Ensure your Mac is running the latest version of macOS to access all features.
- Shortcuts Integration: Use macOS Shortcuts to automate tasks and combine features like Quick Notes and Spotlight.
- Explore Settings: Many hidden gems remain untapped because users overlook the deeper settings in macOS.
Make the Best of Sequoia
By exploring these hidden features, macOS 15 Sequoia becomes more than an operating system—it becomes a powerful tool for productivity and security. Whether scheduling messages, safeguarding privacy, or optimizing workflows, these functionalities cater to both casual users and professionals.
