Apple’s latest operating system for Macs, macOS Ventura, was released in October 2022. It brings some useful new features like Stage Manager multitasking, Continuity Camera, and upgrades to apps like Mail, Safari, and Messages. But is it worth upgrading to macOS Ventura right away, or should you wait?
What’s new in macOS Ventura?
Here are some of the key new features and updates in macOS Ventura:
- Stage Manager – Organizes open apps and windows automatically to keep your desktop neat and focused. You can also create overlapping windows in the center of the screen for fast task switching.
- Continuity Camera – Use iPhone as a webcam for Mac including Center Stage, Portrait mode, and Studio Light.
- Handoff coming to FaceTime – Start a FaceTime call on iPhone or iPad and seamlessly hand it off to your Mac.
- Updates to apps like Mail, Safari, Messages, Reminders, Spotlight, and Passkeys.
- Gaming improvements including better Metal 3 integration and improvements to Game Center.
Should you upgrade to macOS Ventura?
Here are some factors to consider when deciding if upgrading to macOS Ventura is right for you:
Benefits of upgrading
- Get useful new features like Stage Manager and Continuity Camera.
- Improved performance and efficiency thanks to under-the-hood improvements.
- Better integration with other Apple devices when using features like Handoff and Continuity Camera.
- Latest security updates to protect your Mac and your data.
- Compatibility with new apps and services that require macOS Ventura.
Drawbacks of upgrading
- Some apps you rely on daily may not yet be optimized for macOS Ventura, resulting in glitches or other issues.
- As with any major update, you may encounter unexpected bugs or problems.
- Upgrading prevents you from reverting back to macOS Monterey.
- New features like Stage Manager only work on M1-based Macs, not older Intel models.
- Requires time and effort to backup your Mac, complete the upgrade process, and tweak settings.
When should you upgrade to macOS Ventura?
Based on the pros and cons, here is when you should consider upgrading to macOS Ventura:
- Upgrade right away if: You want to take advantage of all the new features, don’t rely on incompatible apps, and have time to install the update and troubleshoot any issues.
- Wait a few weeks if: You want to give Apple and app developers time to iron out any bugs or issues in the initial release.
- Wait a few months if: You rely on essential apps that are not yet updated for compatibility.
- Don’t upgrade if: You have an older Mac that doesn’t support all Ventura features, need stability over new features, or cannot afford any downtime.
How is performance in macOS Ventura?
Overall performance in macOS Ventura is excellent thanks to under-the-hood improvements. Here are some key benefits:
- Faster launch times for apps like Safari, Mail, Messages, Reminders.
- Improved efficiency and battery life due to optimizations.
- Smoother workflows when using new Stage Manager multitasking.
- Graphics, gaming and video editing get a nice boost from Metal 3.
In Apple’s testing, common productivity apps launch up to 15% faster, and many system processes use less memory. These enhancements really add up over time to make macOS Ventura feel faster and more fluid compared to Monterey.
Of course, performance depends on your specific Mac model and hardware configuration. The improvements are most pronounced on M1 and M2 Macs. You may see diminished gains on much older Macs from the Intel era.
What are the most exciting macOS Ventura features?
While macOS Ventura is an iterative update overall, some of the new features stand out for their innovation and usefulness. Here are some of the most exciting capabilities you can look forward to:
Stage Manager multitasking
Stage Manager automatically organizes open apps and windows so they don’t overlap and clutter your screen. You can also create a separate overlapping window in the center for fast task switching. It really streamlines workflows once you get the hang of it.
Continuity Camera
With just a click, you can use your latest iPhone models as the webcam for your Mac. This brings over iOS features like Center Stage, Portrait Mode and Studio Light too. The image and video quality are far beyond any built-in Mac webcam.
Handoff for FaceTime
Never drop a FaceTime call again when switching devices. New Handoff support allows you to start a call on iPhone or iPad and seamlessly transition it to your Mac with just a click.
Passkeys
Passkeys replace passwords with Touch ID or Face ID for account logins. They are safer than passwords, easy to use, and will soon work across Apple devices, apps and websites for a frictionless experience.
What are some tips for a smooth upgrade process?
Upgrading your Mac to a major new operating system release like macOS Ventura can go much smoother by keeping these best practices in mind:
- Clean up old files and apps you no longer need to declutter your Mac before installing.
- Confirm enough storage space is available for the install and backups.
- Make a full system backup first in case you need to revert back.
- Update apps like Microsoft Office before upgrading to maintain compatibility.
- Use the Documents and Desktop folders in iCloud Drive to keep all files up to date.
- Turn off FileVault encryption beforehand to avoid issues updating encrypted drives.
- Disconnect peripherals like eGPUs, hard drives and accessories until after the install.
Setting aside ample time for the upgrade, avoiding interruptions, and restarting your Mac right after installing can also head off problems. Being cautious up front makes for smooth sailing after you upgrade.
What are the most common macOS Ventura problems?
While most users have a seamless experience upgrading to macOS Ventura, some issues can occur including:
- Long installation times, especially on older Macs with limited drive speed.
- Apps becoming unresponsive or crashing after upgrading.
- Data sync problems with iCloud Drive.
- Bluetooth peripherals becoming disconnected and needing to be re-paired.
- Spotlight search not working or finding files.
- Gradual system slowdowns over time until a reboot.
- Rapid battery drain from Indexing after first installing.
- General interface lag after upgrading.
Fortunately most issues are minor and quickly resolved by steps like rebooting, reinstalling problematic apps, refreshing data connections, or completing a clean reinstall if necessary.
Conclusion
macOS Ventura delivers meaningful improvements through new features and refined apps. For optimal performance and compatibility, waiting a few weeks or months to upgrade is recommended. However, upgrading right away can provide exciting access to capabilities like Stage Manager and Continuity Camera if you have compatible apps and workflows.
Careful prep work like cleanups, backups and updates helps ensure the upgrade process goes smoothly. While some minor issues can occur after upgrading, overall macOS Ventura is a worthy update for most Mac users that want access to the latest features and security protections.