OS X Yosemite is version 10.10 of Apple Computer’s Mac OS X operating system for Macintosh desktop, laptop and server computers. OS X Yosemite was introduced at Apple’s 2014 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in early June 2014 along with iOS 8, with official availability for both operating systems expected in the fall.
Yosemite is the eleventh update for Mac OS X, following earlier updates for the operating system: Cheetah (v10.0), Puma (v10.1), Jaguar (v10.2), Panther (v10.3), Tiger (v10.4), Leopard (v10.5), Snow Leopard (v10.6), Lion (v10.7), Mountain Lion (v10.8), and Mavericks (v10.9).
Starting with the Mavericks release, Apple dropped the big cat-based nomenclature of OS X releases and launched a new series of names based on locations in Apple’s home state of California. OS X Yosemite takes its name from the national park in the eastern part of the state that is a popular destination for its beautiful waterfalls and granite cliffs.
What’s New in Yosemite?
OS X Yosemite introduces a number of key new features to go along with an iOS 7-inspired makeover for the interface. The most prominent of the new additions is a collection of features called Continuity that focuses on unifying the experience between OS X computers and Apple’s iOS mobile operating system.
Continuity features include Shared AirDrop for easily sending files between Macs and nearby iPhones or iPads, an Instant Hotspot feature for providing Wi-Fi and internet connectivity on Macs from an iPhone or iPad, phone integration between Macs and iPhones, SMS relaying, and a handy Handoffs feature for sharing “work-in-progress” documents and other files between Mac and iOS devices.
Additional new features and enhancements in OS X Yosemite include Notification Center and iCloud improvements, a redesigned and more powerful Spotlight search tool, Mail Drop and Mail Markup capabilities and more.
