Apple has released the latest update for its desktop operating system: macOS 15.4, which brings significant new features, particularly in the area of artificial intelligence (AI), as well as improvements to key applications such as Mail and Photos.
The most important new features
- Apple Intelligence now available in German: Users in Germany and Austria can now use the AI-supported functions without having to switch languages.
- Revised Mail app: New design and intelligent categorization of emails.
- Improved Photos app: Creation of reminder movies by description and extended sorting and editing functions.
- Support for Matter-compatible vacuum robots: control possible directly via the Home app.
Apple Intelligence: AI functions on the Mac
macOS 15.4 brings Apple Intelligence to Macs with an Apple M1 chip or newer. This integration enables users to make full use of AI-supported functions. Particularly noteworthy is the ability to create so-called “Memory Movies” in the Photos app. A simple description of the desired content is all that is needed and the AI automatically generates a suitable movie from the existing photos and videos. In addition, the “Sketch” style has been introduced in Image Playground, which makes it possible to create impressive drawings. Apple Intelligence now supports eight additional languages, including German, French and Spanish, as well as two additional English language variants.
New design and intelligent functions in the Apple Mail app
The Mail app has been given a fresh design with the update, which is based on the user interface of the iPhone Mail app. One of the most notable new features is the intelligent categorization of emails. This function automatically sorts incoming messages and helps users to prioritize important emails and manage their inbox more efficiently. In addition to the aforementioned option to create reminder videos, the Photos app now offers extended filter options.
For example, users can specify whether elements that are not contained in albums should be displayed in the library view. The new retouch brush in the “Clean Up” tool enables more precise editing, while the sorting functions for albums and collections have been improved. In addition, the “Recently viewed” and “Recently shared” collections can now be shown or hidden via the menu.
Further new features and improvements
macOS 15.4 also brings eight new emojis, including various objects, plants and a smiley face. The Podcasts app has new widgets that make it easier to follow your favorite shows or access frequently used areas such as “Latest Episodes” or “Saved”. Another highlight is the integration of Matter-compatible vacuum robots into the Home app. These can now be controlled directly and integrated into scenes and automations.
Compatible devices for the update
A prerequisite for macOS 15.4 is that the Mac has at least an M1 processor on board. This means that not only current models such as the MacBook Air M4 (€ 999.00 *) or a MacBook Pro with M4 Pro (€ 2,439.00 *) are supported. The update will also be rolled out to older devices such as a MacBook Air M1 (€ 713.52 *).
The update is now available for download and can be installed via the system settings under “Software update”. It is recommended to create a complete backup of the system before installation. You can read more details about the new features from our colleagues at 9to5Mac.
