My computer is backing up as I type this in preparation of updating to El Capitan that became available about an hour ago on the Mac App Store. The update to version 10.11 of the Mac operating software comes with some pretty impressive updates and while it may not be the most advanced update in OS history, it certainly has its place in the history books. Some of the highlights include Spotlight Search, Notes, Safari 9, Full Screen Split View, Mail and Miscellaneous Performance Updates. I have included some details on the updates I’m most excited about below. While the download is free, realize that the download is over 6GB in size and will probably take some time to complete.
Split View
Make the most of your screen with Split View.
I can’t tell you how many times a day I’m flipping back and forth between applications. Sometimes I’m pulling text from an email and creating an article from it in Pages. Now, instead of bouncing so much, I can look at two windows at the same time. Split View automatically fills your screen with any two apps your choose. It’s distraction free – filtering out all other desktop clutter and when you are ready to leave the view, you simply swipe on your trackpad to get back to the desktop. I can see this being a very productive tool and I’m eager to try it out.
Mail
Look what just landed in your inbox.
I have to admit that I’ve not been a fan of working Mail. It just doesn’t seem to have all the functionality I’m looking for in an email management application. With El Capitan’s improvements though, I might be changing my tune. First of all, there is an improved full-screen view and specialized swipe gestures in Mail that will help improve productivity. Full screen will allow you to switch between messages quickly and easily while suggesting events be added to your calendar based off of the content of your emails. Mail now has swipe gestures similar to what you see with your iOS devices. You can triage your most urgent conversations and delete those that are junk without having type a single key on the keyboard. Some very cool improvements might help me like Mail just a bit more.
Notes
Collect more than just your thoughts.
I use my Notes app a lot. And, I believe I will using it even more now that it’s truly a note-taking, thought-collecting application. Not only can you jot down important notes and thoughts, but you can now also turn lists into checklists, or add photos to remind yourself of an important memory. Notes has really received a revamp with El Capitan and now handles all kinds of content – not just text. AND, all your Notes are syncable through iCloud.
There are countless updates available through El Capitan and this writer is really looking forward to updating. Look for a review of the new features within the next few days.
For more information on El Capitan, visit http://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new.
