After months of beta testing, Apple has finally released macOS 11.3 to the public. From a new Autoplay in Apple Music to games controllers support, the latest iOS update offers tons of new features. Let’s check out these cool updates and find out if it’s worth an upgrade.
Big Sur 11.3 New Features
Now, macOS Big Sur 11.3 is officially available for all users. And, you can download this update in System Preferences > Software Update. Below are the new features that are included in this macOS 11.3 update:
Hello Screensaver
The update includes a new screen saver for Apple’s latest M1 Macs. Even though right now there is no info about non-M1 Mac support from Apple, we hope that users can still see this new screensaver on older Macs.
Games Controller Support
With the new Big Sur 11.3, Mac users will have access to several games related features. And, the most noticeable one is a new game controller setting in Preferences. For example, you can map the X button on the controller to the letter Q on the keyboard or W, A, S, D as directional arrows. Moreover, this macOS 11.3 update will also add support for the PS 5, Xbox Series X, and Series S controllers.
Reminders
In macOS Big Sur 11.3, users will have the ability to sort the Today Smart list. Plus, now you can move Reminders manually up and down via drag and drop within any list. The update also adds an option to print your reminder lists.
iOS/iPadOS Apps Improvements on the Mac
This will give you a better experience while using iPhone and iPad apps on M1 Macs. For instance, iOS/iPadOS apps will have the highest resolution support and also come in full screen. Also, there is a Touch alternatives preferences pane that lets you control your actions on these apps using keyboard and mouse.
Improved Safari Features
Users can rearrange different sections like Favorites, Reading List, Siri Suggestions on the Start Page with additional Safari customization options. Additionally, the new update will let developers create extensions for features that appear on the new tab. Plus, there is also a new Web Speech API that allows developers to incorporate speech recognition into their web pages.
AirTag and Find My
After the release of AirTags in the Spring Load event, Apple finally adds support to these newly introduced item trackers on macOS. Users can track their AirTags easily with the Find My app. Also, there’s a networking feature that helps you find your lost AirTag by utilizing other iOS devices and Macs.
Apple Music
Apple Music improvements include a Made For You Library shortcut that should simplify the process of finding personal mixes and playlists. Meanwhile, there is a Listen Now option offering live and upcoming special events based on your interests.
Besides that, Apple also adds a new Autoplay feature. It will let Apple Music continue to play similar songs even if the playlist runs out. To activate the Autoplay feature, simply press the infinity sign icon (∞). Moreover, you will also have the ability to share lyrics when sending links to your friends via Messaging, Instagram, or Facebook Messenger. However, this function is limited to a maximum of 150 characters.
Apple News & Warranty information
A redesigned News+ feed is introduced to help subscribers access Apple magazines and newspapers quickly. On top of that, now Mac users can check their Mac’s warranty information by going to About This Mac > Support.
Have you updated to macOS Big Sur 11.3? And, which new features do you like the most in this update? Let us know about them in the comments!
