5 macOS features that deserve more attention

Smart Folders Make File Management Seamless

Smart Folders aren’t real folders; they’re dynamic search filters that help you organize files by criteria like type, date, tags, and even image metadata. Create one by opening Finder and selecting File > New Smart Folder.

From academic projects to design resources, Smart Folders save time by keeping relevant files grouped without needing to move anything. It’s ideal for users who need an order without doing the manual work.

Use the Spacebar to Preview Files Instantly

In Finder, highlighting a file and pressing the Spacebar activates Quick Look, a fast preview tool. Whether you’re cycling through dozens of PDFs, videos, or image assets, this feature saves time by letting you glance at content without launching the whole app.

It’s convenient when skimming through folders filled with similar file names. Right-clicking is unnecessary; just tap the Spacebar to preview, and press it again to close. Once you start using it, you’ll never look back.

Automator Workflows for Repetitive Tasks

Automator is macOS’s built-in automation tool, capable of batching actions like renaming files, converting image formats, and launching multiple applications simultaneously. You don’t need coding knowledge to build these workflows.

Just drag and drop actions to create routines, which can be saved as apps or Quick Actions in right-click menus. One popular example? An automated downloads cleanup script that moves old files to the trash folder every week.

Hot Corners Offer Instant Access Shortcuts

Hot Corners lets you assign macOS actions like showing the desktop or starting a screen saver to the corners of your screen. You can move your cursor to a designated corner, triggering the action automatically.

You can add modifier keys like Shift or Control to prevent accidental activation. It’s a feature many users don’t even know exists, but once configured in System Settings > Desktop & Dock > Hot Corners, it becomes a lightning-fast way to access standard tools or secure your Mac.

Live Text Lets You Copy from Images Instantly

Live Text allows you to highlight and copy text from images and many still or paused video frames in apps such as Preview, Photos, Safari, and QuickTime on supported hardware and versions of macOS.

Need to grab a Wi-Fi password or tracking number from a screenshot? Just select and copy. It’s a game-changer for productivity, especially when paired with the iPhone’s camera.

Dictation Is More Powerful Than Ever

MacOS has robust built-in dictation tools that let you speak instead of type, which is great for hands-free input or reducing wrist strain. Activate it from System Settings > Keyboard, then use a shortcut to start dictating in any app.

You’ll need to use punctuation like “commas” or “new paragraphs,” but it quickly becomes second nature. In many languages and regions, you can enable on‑device dictation so it works offline.

Display Zooming for Better Accessibility

Beyond simple font scaling, macOS allows full-screen zooming using gestures or keyboard shortcuts. Found under System Settings > Accessibility > Zoom, you can zoom in using a modifier key (like Control) while scrolling.

This is invaluable when showing others fine details or working with small UI elements. You can toggle smooth or stepped zooming and have the screen follow the cursor. It’s not just an accessibility feature; it’s a productivity boost for power users and presenters.

Background Sounds for Better Focus

Need white noise or calming ambiance while working? macOS includes built-in background sounds like ocean waves, rain, and white or pink noise. Navigate to System Settings > Accessibility > Audio to enable them.

Unlike streaming apps, these run locally and can be layered under music. They’re great for blocking distractions or setting a peaceful tone while you work. If you subscribe to Apple Music, you can explore curated ambient playlists for deeper variety.

Flash Screen Alerts for Silent Notifications

If you work in a noisy environment or often mute your Mac, macOS can flash the screen alongside playing alert sounds. This is a great visual aid when you don’t want to miss a notification. Enable it under System Settings > Accessibility > Audio.

It’s beneficial for users with hearing impairments or tasks where auditory alerts might be missed. The screen briefly flashes white, signaling that an event occurred, without pulling your attention away from what you’re doing.

Apple Watch Unlock Saves Time

If you wear an Apple Watch, you can set it to unlock your Mac automatically. No password typing or fingerprinting is needed; just sit down and start working. Enable it under System Settings > Touch ID & Password.

It’s secure too: your Mac checks that your watch is nearby, worn, and unlocked. While not perfect in multi-user spaces, it’s a major time-saver at home or in trusted environments.

Terminal, Unlock Advanced Customization

For power users, Terminal is a goldmine. You can block websites, edit hidden preferences, and execute complex file operations faster than the GUI allows. Terminal lives in Applications > Utilities and supports drag-and-drop paths for ease.

It’s a tool worth learning, from batch renaming files to adding blank Dock spaces or unquarantining apps. If the UI ever feels limiting, Terminal gives you access to the full power of Unix under macOS’s glossy surface.

Script Editor Brings AppleScript to Life

Script Editor lets you write and run AppleScript, a Mac-native language for automating apps. Though less flashy than Shortcuts or Automator, AppleScript still shines in complex automation, such as opening apps with custom settings or auto-configuring environments.

Many pro Mac users still rely on it for tasks that are too specific for GUI-based tools. You can even turn scripts into apps or bind them to menu bar items.

Shortcuts Sync Across All Apple Devices

Shortcuts on macOS allow drag-and-drop automation using both native and third-party apps. It’s less complex than Automator but more visual, making it perfect for everyday tasks like resizing images, renaming files, or launching multiple apps simultaneously.

Plus, Shortcuts sync with iPhone and iPad via iCloud. You can trigger them from the menu bar or use Siri. Whether you’re automating backups or toggling system settings, Shortcuts make repetitive tasks more straightforward and more consistent.

Split View for Instant Multitasking

Want to work in two apps side-by-side without distractions? Press the green full-screen button on a window, then choose another app to fill the opposite side. Split View helps you avoid constant window toggling and improves focus.

It’s great for writing with a reference open or dragging content between apps. When done, exit full-screen and both windows snap back. Split View is a game-changer if you’re juggling research, emails, or creative work.

Screenshot Shortcuts Save Your Workflow

macOS supports multiple types of screenshots with built-in shortcuts. Press Command + Shift + 4 to select a region, or Command + Shift + 5 to bring up a screen recording toolbar.

Screenshots automatically save to your desktop, or you can change the default location. Need to capture a specific window? Just hit Space after Command + Shift + 4.

These native tools are fast, flexible, and more powerful than most users realize, especially when paired with Preview for quick edits.

While at it, check out the M4-powered iMac with enhanced AI features. These new features have some mind-blowing facts you might want to know.

Homebrew Brings Linux-Style Package Management

Though technically third-party, Homebrew becomes an essential macOS tool once installed. It lets you install powerful utilities and open-source software from the command line.

Want ffmpeg, wget, or a non-App Store version of VLC? Homebrew has you covered. Install it via Terminal, then run brew install commands for a massive catalog of apps. It’s clean, fast, and keeps your software up to date.

You might also like to see if the MacBook Air is ideal for digital creators. Make sure to check all the specs and requirements before making a decision.

What do you think about these interesting features of macOS? Please share your thoughts and drop a comment.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.