Apple has released two major operating systems for Mac computers, macOS Mojave and macOS Catalina. Both offer a range of improvements and features to help enhance your experience using Macs. While both are great options, there are some key differences between them that you should consider before deciding which one is right for you. This article will explore the various differences between macOS Mojave and macOS Catalina.
Mojave vs. Catalina: Performance
Mac systems have come a long way in the past decade, from Snow Leopard to the latest release of macOS Catalina. The newest versions of macOS tend to provide users with just about any bug fix and many improvements for security, privacy, and capabilities for technological innovations. With these improvements come many changes in performance between the latest releases and earlier versions such as Mojave. Hence, through essence, the entire system of Catalina would run more smoothly than Mojave.
One major change in performance between Mojave and Catalina is the use of the Sidecar feature, which allows users to mirror their Mac’s screens on their iPad device. This feature enables users to have a second screen by using an Apple Pencil with their iPad to control and draw graphic designs directly on their Mac’s screen. Since this added feature gives those who are used to drawing with a graphics tablet touchscreen functionality, it can be seen as a pleasant surprise among those who lean towards artistic endeavors. Consequently, it turns out that Catalina functions quite differently than its predecessor due its performance improvements over Mojave.
Mojave vs. Catalina: Features
When comparing macOS Mojave to Catalina, feature differences become immediately apparent. The greatest talk of the town has been that iTunes is no longer available in Catailina, causing many devoted users to remain with Mojave for their music entertainment needs. This move essentially marked the end of an era for iTunes, leading it to be replaced by the three media apps, Podcasts, Music and TV. While these apps were already offered on iOS devices before coming onto macOS devices, Catalina goes even further as it also supports Apple’s upcoming TV+ broadcast service features via the TV app integration.
On a more positive note for Catalina users is the upgrade of Photos with improved processor techniques to enhance visuals and showcase personal images based on what the programmers knows about you. This enables your photos look their absolute best while creating increased relevance and meaning through stylization that caters to its user’s preferences.
Mojave vs. Catalina: Accessibility
The addition of Voice Control in macOS Catalina makes accessibility for people with disabilities much more comprehensive. Voice Control allows users to use explicit commands to navigate and manipulate their mac on a hands-free basis, from selecting, clicking and dragging objects to zoom in and out on a single screen. This feature removes the necessity of using mouse or trackpad, as well as relying on keyboard shortcuts which requires prior knowledge.
Grids layered mostly over the monitor allow users to better control where they want to move objects or where they would like to go. Combining these features with magnification options make it easier for visually impaired users to view their systems the way they want it with very basic commands and gestures. These advances are sure to create a more inclusive environment overall by serving those who may not be able to access computers due to physical or mental restrictions.
Mojave vs. Catalina: Privacy and Security
When it comes to the privacy and security of macOS Mojave and Catalina, major improvements have been made with the release of Catalina. Activation Lock protects lost or stolen Mac devices. This means that only the authorized user can delete files and reload their Mac, as no other person will be allowed to do so.
Another great security feature included with macOS Catalina is its independent read-only area on the startup drive which ensures that no file systems are mistakenly overwritten. Additionally, when using documents and desktop directories, along with other external applications such as iCloud Drive, Catalina requires you to authorize all entries it stores before adding them. Furthermore, you’ll get a prompt before any application can record your keypad activity or take pictures or videos of your monitor. With these new features in place, users can feel more secure knowing their data is better protected from malicious intrusion.
Health
Apple has continually pushed innovation in its products and services, with health a recent focus. With the release of their Mac OS Catalina, Screen Time is available on Apple computers with similar features as on their phones. This allows users to set screen time limits for different categories like Social Networking and Games, or an All Apps block. These limits can help people from spending too much time staring at a screen, reducing potential symptoms of digital eyestrain such as headaches and blurred vision.
With Family Sharing also incorporated into the Mac OS Catalina feature, parents now have greater control over their children’s activity levels on electronic devices. Mobile Screen Time reports can be accessed directly from your Mac as well as sharing usage plans across multiple members of the family. Screen Time will offer valuable insights into how much time you are spending on your devices and more importantly how much you should be taking a break and living an active lifestyle instead.
Built-in apps
MacOS has decided that it’s time to phase out the tried-and-true iTunes app. In its place, they have brought us three new apps: TV, Music, and Podcasts. All of the features inherent in iTunes now exist on these new apps, but with some extra added advantages like machine-learning assistance in organizing your photos with the Photos app. Not only can users keep their libraries organized using a modernized interface similar to iOS, but they will also be able to access Apple TV+ subscription services through the TV App. Although some may lament this change for sentimental reasons, it should undoubtedly improve the experience for macOS users going forward.
Other Apple devices
Apple is introducing powerful new features for the Mac in macOS Catalina. One of the most significant advancements is Marzipan, a technology that simplifies the process of porting iPad apps to Mac. This means developers can create universal apps that are compatible with both iOS and macOS. Furthermore, as part of Project Catalyst, Apple has made an effort to convince developers to bring their iPad apps to the Mac platform.
In addition to running universal apps on a Mac, you can also use your iPad as an external monitor, graphics tablet, or even a markup machine using Continuity Markup. This makes it easier than ever to utilize the Mac-iPad pairing in creative ways. Finally, Apple Watch owners will appreciate being able to unlock their Macs with just a press of their wrist and confirm app installations on their Apple devices without having to enter passwords each time.