Lesson 1: macOS High Sierra: Frequently Asked Questions
macOS High Sierra: Frequently Asked Questions
On September 25, 2017, Apple released the macOS High Sierra operating system. We'd like to offer you a brief overview and answer any questions you may have at this time.
What is macOS High Sierra?
macOS High Sierra is an operating system for desktop and laptop computers. It is version 10.13 of the macOS (formerly OS X) series of operating systems. It is similar to the previous version, macOS Sierra, but there are some performance improvements and new features.
When will it be available?
High Sierra is available now.
How much does it cost?
Like previous versions of macOS, High Sierra is a free upgrade.
Who can get macOS High Sierra?
Anyone with a newer Apple computer can upgrade to High Sierra. The technical requirements are the same as those for macOS Sierra, which means the following models can upgrade:
- MacBook: Late 2009 and later
- MacBook Air: 2010 and later
- MacBook Pro: 2010 and later
- iMac: Late 2009 and later
- Mac Mini: 2010 and later
- Mac Pro: 2010 and later
How do I get macOS High Sierra?
If you buy a new Apple computer, High Sierra will come pre-installed. You won't need to do anything to install it.
If you want to upgrade an existing computer, you can download and install High Sierra by going to the App Store on your Mac (shown below) and clicking Updates.
As with previous versions, macOS High Sierra is only available as an online download. You cannot purchase a physical copy at a retail store.
What's new in macOS High Sierra?
The look and feel of High Sierra is very similar to Sierra. Most of the changes are designed to improve the speed and efficiency of your computer.
Performance improvements:
- File system: macOS High Sierra will use a new file system called Apple File System (APFS), which will replace the current Hierarchical File System Plus (HFS+). Because this is a back-end change, it won't change the way your files and folders are organized. Rather, it will allow your computer to access files much more quickly, leading to a noticeable improvement when moving or copying files.
- Safari speed improvements: The built-in Safari web browser will be faster than previous versions. According to Apple, it will be able to run JavaScript 80 percent faster than before.
- Mail app improvements: If you use the built-in Mail app for email, you'll be able to keep it open without slowing down other apps because the new version will use 35 percent less disk space.
Other features:
- Ad tracking protection: You may already know that many websites track your activity in order to deliver targeted ads. The new version of Safari will help you block this type of tracking to protect your privacy.
- Fullscreen split view for Mail: The Mail app will have a new full-screen split view, allowing you to see your inbox while composing a message.
- Better photo editing: The built-in Photos app (shown below) will have an updated interface, with some new editing tools and a better facial recognition system.
Will my apps still be there after I upgrade?
Any apps you previously had installed on your computer will still be there once you upgrade. Some Apple apps will be updated automatically when you upgrade.
Will my apps still work after I upgrade?
Almost all apps installed on your computer should work correctly in macOS High Sierra. However, as with any new operating system, some software may not be totally compatible. A simple Google search will often be enough to tell if an app will be compatible with High Sierra.
