Apple has released macOS 10.13.4 to all users via Mac App Store. The new update ships with features like Business Chat in Messages, eGPU support, privacy focused screens along with security and bug fixes. On the surface, it does not appear to be as big an update as iOS 11.3 and watchOS 4.3 and during usage, it feels just the same as the previous macOS release.
macOS 10.13.4 release notes/changelog
Here are the complete release notes from Apple:
• Adds support for Business Chat conversations in Messages in the U.S.
• Adds support for external graphics processors (eGPUs)
• Fixes graphics corruption issues affecting certain apps on iMac Pro
• Allows jumping to the right-most open tab using Command+9 in Safari
• Enables sorting Safari bookmarks by name or URL by right clicking and choosing ‘Sort By’
• Fixes an issue that may prevent web link previews from appearing in Messages
• Helps protect privacy by only AutoFilling usernames and passwords after selecting them in a web form field in Safari
• Displays warnings in the Safari Smart Search Field when interacting with password or credit card forms on non-encrypted web pages
• Displays privacy icons and links to explain how your data will be used and protected when Apple features ask to use your personal information
One important new feature that Apple has not listed is support for Service Workers in Safari which enables support for Progressive Web Apps. However, support for PWA is more useful on iOS for now, than on macOS as there is no way to add PWA shortcuts to your desktop or Dock. More on PWA in iOS in another article.
Does your Mac support macOS 10.13.4?
If you already have macOS 10.13.3 installed, you can upgrade to the new version. In case you are using an even older version of macOS, you can check from the below list if your Mac is compatible with the latest version:
- Mac: late 2009 or newer
- MacBook/MacBook (Retina): late 2009 or newer
- MacBook Pro: mid-2010 or newer
- MacBook Air: late 2010 or newer
- Mac Mini: mid-2010 or newer
- Mac Pro: mid-2010 or newer
- iMac Pro
Note that some macOS High Sierra specific features like HEVC hardware acceleration and eGPU (external graphics processor) support require one 0f the below Mac models:
HEVC hardware acceleration support is available on the following MacBooks and iMacs:
- iMac: late 2015 27″ or newer, 2017 21.5″ or newer
- MacBook: early 2016 or newer
- MacBook Pro: 2016 or newer
- iMac Pro
eGPU support required a Mac with Thunderbolt 3 compatible USB-C port:
- MacBook Pro: 2016 or later
- iMac: 2017 or later
Download macOS High Sierra 10.13.4 DMG file
If you want to download the complete DMG file for the new update, you can download the combo update from Apple’s website here. This is useful if you want to create a macOS 10.13.4 bootable USB drive or just need an offline back up to update multiple Macs.
In case you have not received the upgrade yet on your Mac, open Mac App Store and click on the Update tab. The update should appear for download. Once downloaded, the update will take some time to install. You can verify the update after the process is complete by clicking on the Apple logo and going to About this Mac. The screen should say macOS 10.13.4
