When I got my new MacBook, I was thrilled, but those unfamiliar icons had me scratching my head. After exploring and figuring things out, I thought I’d make it easier for you. Here’s a guide to all the apps that come with your MacBook and how they can make your life simpler.
Quick Overview: Software Comes With MacBook Air and MacBook Pro
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Apple equips its MacBooks with a robust set of apps for productivity, creativity, and everyday tasks. Here’s a quick snapshot of what’s included:
| Category | App Examples | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | macOS | The heart of your MacBook, packed with features. |
| Productivity | Notes, Reminders, Calendar, Mail | Manage tasks, schedules, and communication. |
| Creativity | iMovie, GarageBand, Photos | Edit videos, create music, and organize pictures. |
| Media | Apple Music, Podcasts, Apple TV | Enjoy music, shows, and podcasts. |
| Utilities | Preview, Time Machine, Voice Memos | View files, back up data, and record audio. |
| Communication | FaceTime, Messages | Stay connected with family, friends, and colleagues. |
Tip📁: You can customize the Dock by dragging and dropping apps you use frequently. It helps keep things tidy and makes launching apps quicker.
Detailed Breakdown of Pre-Installed Apps on MacBooks
Apple packs its MacBooks with a robust suite of software designed to enhance productivity, creativity, and ease of use. Here’s a breakdown of the key apps and what they offer:
1. Latest macOS
Every MacBook Air and Pro comes with the latest version of macOS, Apple’s operating system. The current version, macOS Sequoia, offers improved performance, new features, and enhanced security.
💡 Tip: Apple releases a new macOS version annually. While these updates work on most Mac models, older devices may have compatibility issues. Check your MacBook’s compatibility before upgrading.
2. Siri
Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant, helps you manage tasks with just your voice. From setting reminders and sending messages to adjusting system settings, Siri simplifies multitasking.
🎙️ Pro Tip: You can also use Siri for fun—ask for jokes, trivia, or even weather updates!
3. Safari
Safari is macOS’s default web browser, known for its speed and privacy features. It includes tools like Reader mode for distraction-free browsing and intelligent tracking prevention to safeguard your online activity.
🌐 If you’re not a fan of Safari, you can easily download and use other browsers like Chrome or Firefox. Just make sure to set them as your default in the settings!
4. Mail
The Mail app is a one-stop solution for managing multiple email accounts, including iCloud, Gmail, Yahoo, and Microsoft Exchange. It offers a clean interface and powerful search tools to keep your inbox organized.
5. FaceTime
FaceTime allows you to make high-quality video and audio calls to other Apple users. It integrates with your iPhone, so you can also make standard calls from your Mac.
6. Messages
With Messages, you can send text, photos, videos, and even audio messages to other Apple users. It syncs seamlessly with your iPhone, so all your conversations stay in one place.
✋ FYI: Too many notifications? Learn how to turn off iMessage on Mac for peace of mind.
7. Books
The Books app is a digital library where you can read eBooks, audiobooks, and PDFs. Features like bookmarks, highlights, and customization make it perfect for avid readers.
8. Stocks
The Stocks app provides real-time market data and trends. It’s great for tracking investments but may lack advanced features serious investors need.
9. Home App
Control smart home devices directly from your Mac using the Home app. From lights to thermostats, it centralizes everything in one place.
10. Voice Memos
Voice Memos is perfect for recording lectures, interviews, or quick notes. Sync recordings across Apple devices for easy access.
11. Notes
The Notes app helps you organize ideas, to-do lists, and multimedia. With features like attachments and collaboration, it’s a handy tool for personal or work projects.
12. Calendar
Calendar keeps track of events, reminders, and meetings. Sync it with Google or iCloud for seamless integration. You can even color-code categories to stay organized.
13. Contacts
Store and manage contact details in one place. Syncing with your iPhone makes updates effortless.
14. Reminders
Reminders help you stay on top of tasks with due dates and location-based notifications. It’s a simple yet effective to-do list app.
15. Photo Booth
Photo Booth is a fun app for taking selfies or quirky photos with your Mac’s camera. Experiment with effects for some laughs!
16. Preview
Preview lets you view and edit images and PDFs. Whether it’s annotating a PDF or cropping an image, this app is lightweight yet powerful.
17. Time Machine
Time Machine is a built-in backup tool that ensures your data is safe. Restore files or your entire system to a previous state with ease.
18. Apple Music
Apple Music replaces iTunes, giving you access to a vast music library and streaming service. You can also purchase songs or albums from the iTunes Store.
19. Apple TV
Stream movies, TV shows, and exclusive Apple content with the Apple TV app. It’s a hub for all your video entertainment.
20. Apple Podcasts
Discover and listen to podcasts across various genres. The app automatically updates with new episodes of your subscribed shows.
21. App Store
The App Store is your gateway to downloading secure, macOS-approved applications. It also makes app updates easy with its built-in updater.
22. iLife Suite
MacBooks include iLife apps for creative projects:
- GarageBand: Compose and record music.
- iMovie: Edit videos with professional-grade tools.
23. iWork Suite
For productivity, the iWork suite includes:
- Keynote: A presentation tool.
- Pages: A word processor.
- Numbers: A spreadsheet app.
Warning ⚠️: Be careful when deleting pre-installed apps from your MacBook. Some apps are tied to the system and removing them could cause issues. Stick to customizing your Dock instead of deleting.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know what software is included with your MacBook, you may want to learn how to get the most out of these apps. Here are a few tips for you:
- If your Safari is crashing, learn how to clear browser cache on Safari to prevent it from crashing.
- Learn how to create a backup using Time Machine to keep your data from getting lost.
- If it gets too cluttered, you can easily delete FaceTime calls on your Mac and prevent performance issues.
