Apple has released macOS Sequoia 15.1 Beta 6, introducing a series of important updates and fixes aimed at enhancing the overall user experience and improving application performance. This latest beta version addresses several resolved issues across various frameworks, while also highlighting some known issues that developers should be aware of.
In the AppKit framework, a significant fix has been made regarding keyboard shortcuts. Previously, menu item keyboard shortcuts in the Services menu would take precedence over shortcuts for application menu items. This issue has now been resolved, ensuring a smoother navigation experience for users.
The Carbon framework also received attention in this update. An issue that caused iBooks Author to quit unexpectedly when clicking on Charts or Widgets in the toolbar has been fixed, allowing users to work more seamlessly with these features.
DataDetection API users will be pleased to know that a critical issue has been resolved, which previously caused iPhone and iPad apps running on Apple Silicon Macs to quit unexpectedly. This fix enhances stability for developers utilizing this API.
In the Messages app, a fix has been implemented to address an issue that prevented iMessage and other third-party notifications from being received while connected to a VPN. This improvement ensures that users remain connected and informed, regardless of their network settings.
A new feature has been introduced in Mobile Device Management (MDM) profiles, allowing the use of the key ‘forceBypassScreenCaptureAlert’. This feature enables owners of managed devices to opt out of user notifications for content capture technologies, providing greater control over their device settings.
Quick Look has also seen improvements, with a fix for an issue that caused crashes when back-deploying apps that linked QuickLookUI to macOS 11 or earlier. This resolution enhances compatibility and stability for developers working with older macOS versions.
In terms of user awareness, applications utilizing deprecated content capture technologies now have enhanced policies. Users will encounter fewer dialogs if they regularly use apps where they have already acknowledged and accepted the associated risks.
Siri users will benefit from a fix that addresses unresponsive buttons on macOS Siri snippets when using Siri through Voice. This improvement enhances the overall functionality of Siri on macOS.
StoreKit has also been updated, with a fix for an issue in StoreKit Testing in Xcode where the offer identifier in subscription renewal information was reported incorrectly for offer codes. This resolution aids developers in managing their in-app purchases more effectively.
However, there are some known issues that developers should keep in mind. Projects utilizing Swift Charts may fail to build when targeting iOS, macOS, or visionOS. Additionally, macOS apps might crash due to exceptions related to duplicate toolbar items, particularly when NavigationSplitViews are nested or when toolbars with specified IDs are used.
Overall, the release of macOS Sequoia 15.1 Beta 6 marks a significant step forward in improving the stability and functionality of the macOS platform. Developers are encouraged to test their applications against this latest beta to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. As Apple continues to refine macOS Sequoia, users can look forward to a more robust and feature-rich experience in the future.