Apple has released macOS Sonoma 14.3, the latest version of its desktop operating system for Macs. The new update comes three months after the launch of macOS Sonoma and brings several notable new features and security enhancements.
Background on macOS Sonoma
macOS Sonoma, originally announced at WWDC 2023, represented a major update to the Mac operating system. Key new features included a redesign of system apps, updated Spotlight search, and Continuity Camera for using iPhone as a Mac webcam. The update also brought new gaming capabilities and underlying architectural improvements.
Since its release in October 2022, Apple has issued several incremental updates to address bugs and add minor new capabilities. macOS Sonoma 14.3 represents the most significant update since the initial launch.
What’s New in macOS Sonoma 14.3
According to Apple’s release notes and various technology sites covering the update, macOS Sonoma 14.3 includes the following major changes:
Enhanced Security
- Over 20 security fixes and vulnerabilities patched
- Updates for WebKit, Kernel, libxml2, and other core components
- Hardens defenses against malware and potential cyber attacks
Gaming Improvements
- Faster launch times for some Metal 3 games
- Resolved an issue that reduced GPU frame rates
Siri and HomeKit
- Siri can now interact with third-party smart home devices using HomeKit
- More natural voice for Australian English Siri voices
Bug Fixes
- Addresses an issue saving ExpressVPN profiles
- Fixes an error when waking Macs from sleep
- Resolves problems loading webpages in Safari
The update also includes general stability improvements and optimzations across the system.
Changes During the macOS Sonoma 14.3 Beta Period
In the weeks leading up to the public release, Apple issued several beta versions of macOS Sonoma 14.3 to developers and public beta testers.
Key changes during the beta testing period included:
| Beta | Date | Major Changes |
|---|---|---|
| Beta 1 | Jan 3, 2023 | Initial release |
| Beta 2 | Jan 10 | Gaming fixes, Siri updates |
| Beta 3 | Jan 17 | Multiple security patches, HomeKit support |
| Release Candidate | Jan 17 | Final testing ahead of public release |
The beta period allowed developers to test their apps against the new APIs and updates in macOS Sonoma 14.3. It also gave Apple crucial feedback to refine features and fix last minute bugs.
How to Update to macOS Sonoma 14.3
The macOS Sonoma 14.3 update is available immediately for compatible Macs through the Software Update mechanism in System Preferences.
To update, go to System Preferences > Software Update and click “Upgrade Now” if the macOS Sonoma 14.3 update appears.
The update may take several minutes to an hour in some cases based on internet speed and local storage configuration. Apple recommends updating on all supported Macs to gain the latest features and security protections.
What Macs are Compatible with macOS Sonoma 14.3?
macOS Sonoma 14.3 is compatible with all of the same Macs as the original macOS Sonoma release. This includes:
- 2017 iMac and newer
- 2018 MacBook Air and newer
- 2019 MacBook Pro and newer
- 2019 Mac Pro and newer
- 2020 Mac mini and newer
In total, this represents hundreds of millions of active Mac devices that can install the 14.3 update.
For a full list of compatible Mac models, refer to Apple’s support document on macOS compatibility.
What to Expect Going Forward
The release of macOS Sonoma 14.3 is part of Apple’s pattern of ongoing updates to mature and enhance the Mac operating system experience.
Now that 14.3 is available, Apple will likely shift focus to the next incremental update, potentially macOS Sonoma 14.4. Another option is a more significant update dubbed macOS Sonoma 15 to coincide with this June’s Worldwide Developer Conference.
As always, we can expect continued security patches, new features, and overall refinements with each OS update. Key areas to watch include enhancements for Apple silicon Macs, Continuity features with iOS devices, and gaming capabilities.
The regular update cadence helps ensure Macs stay at peak performance while providing a robust platform for new apps and services. For the best experience, be sure to keep your Macs up to date with the latest OS version.
Summary and Conclusion
The release of macOS Sonoma 14.3 represents an important milestone in the evolution of the new desktop OS. While more incremental in nature, the enhancements and fixes in 14.3 help address lingering issues from the initial launch while hardening the platform with crucial security updates.
For all Mac users, it is advised to install the free update by going to System Preferences > Software Update. Consistently keeping devices updated remains the best practice for performance, compatibility, and safety.
As Apple’s annual OS release cycle continues through 2023, we can expect macOS Sonoma to receive its fair share of attention. The roadmap likely includes a significant update at WWDC in June along with regular enhancements like today’s 14.3 release.
Overall, macOS Sonoma has gotten off to a strong start since its launch last fall. And with Apple’s trademark attention to detail, the platform will only continue improving in the months and years ahead.
To err is human, but AI does it too. Whilst factual data is used in the production of these articles, the content is written entirely by AI. Double check any facts you intend to rely on with another source.
