macOS Big Sur (version 11) is the seventeenth major release of Apple's macOS operating system for Macintosh computers. It was announced at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 22, 2020, and released to the public on November 12, 2020. This version marked the first major increment of the macOS version number from 10 to 11 since 2001 and introduced a significant redesign of the user interface, making it more modern and consistent. It also included new features such as a Control Center, an updated Safari browser, revamped Messages and Maps apps, and support for Macs with ARM-based Apple Silicon processors, notably the M1 chip. Key features and changes in macOS Big Sur include:
- A fresh, more streamlined design with updated app icons, a new Dock, and translucent menu bars.
- Control Center for quick access to settings, similar to iOS.
- Enhanced Notification Center with interactive notifications and new widgets.
- Support for Apple Silicon processors alongside Intel.
- Performance improvements and security enhancements, such as app notarization and privacy controls in Safari.
- The last macOS version to support certain older Macs with Nvidia graphics cards.
System requirements include Macs from mid-2013 and later models across various product lines like MacBook, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, iMac, Mac Mini, and Mac Pro. The operating system upheld Apple's tradition of naming macOS releases after California locations, with Big Sur being a scenic coastal region on the Central Coast of California. Despite its many advancements, the Big Sur release initially had some issues such as installation problems on specific Mac models and privacy concerns, which were addressed in subsequent updates. Overall, it was a significant step towards unifying the macOS experience with Apple's mobile operating systems in look and functionality.