The latest installment of Apple’s Mac software, OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion, is set to be released to the App Store in only a matter of hours. Mountain Lion will bring many upgrades over the previous software (Lion). Most notably, a significant amount of iOS integration, taking the software we all love having in our hands and assimilating it into the devices we don’t always take on the go. With Mountain Lion’s release date set for tomorrow, July 25th, here are all the features you need to know about before you upgrade.
Mountain Lion Release
OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion is set to hit the App Store tomorrow, July 25th. We’re sure that you’ll be able to have the software installed by a ‘genius’ at your local Apple store, but, considering that Lion was an App store exclusive, expect the same with the latest upgrade.
It will cost $20.
Mountain Lion Features
Mountain Lion was released to developers months ago (to allow them to optimize their software for the upgrade), so we know virtually everything the operating system has to offer. The biggest new features are iOS integration, improved iCloud syncing, iMessage, AirPlay Mirroring, and Social Media integration.
iOS Integration
All your Reminders, Notifications, Notes, and Game Center activity will seamlessly sync with your Mac.
iCloud Syncing
You’ll be able to log in to your Mac with your Apple ID and set up your Contacts, Mail, Calendar, Messages, FaceTime, Find My Mac, and Documents.
iMessage
No more iChat. Mountain Lion will allow conversations started on your iPhone or iPad to be continued on your Mac — and vice versa. You’ll be able to include attachments, photos, HD Video — everything you would want to send a contact but couldn’t do with iOS’ limitations.
AirPlay Mirroring
Got an AppleTV? If you do, you’ll be able to wirelessly use your television as a realtime monitor.
Social Media Integration
Both Facebook and Twitter have been assimilated through native apps like Safari, Quick Look, Photo Booth, Preview, as well as third-party apps.
——-
I have to say I’m pretty pleased with these new features. Twenty bucks is 150% worth not having to tap the home button on my iPhone 500 times a day to see if I have new messages, notifications, and reminders. Also, I’m not an AppleTV user (at first it was too limited, and now I don’t want to spend the money if a full-fledged TV is about to come out), but the AirPlay mirroring is impressive, simply based on the uses it could have in office/work environment.
You might also like:
