Apple recently the first beta of macOS Monterey 12.3 to developers which brings support for Universal Control, one of the most anticipated features of the update. According to a new report, the beta also has frameworks and daemons that are required for the desktop operating system to support ultra wideband (or UWB) technology.
Ultra wideband technology could be coming to Macs
As reported by 9to5Mac, the latest beta of macOS 12 includes frameworks and daemons needed to support ultra wideband technology. These tools are already used to provide UWB support on iOS devices with the U1 chip.
For those who might not know, UWB is a short-range radio technology similar to WiFi and Bluetooth. However, it uses a low energy level for short-range and operates at high frequencies. More importantly, it can be used for highly accurate spatial and directional data like in HomePod mini, and iPhone 12 series.
The technology was first introduced to Apple’s devices with the iPhone 11 in 2019, it was then expanded to the Apple Watch, HomePod mini, and AirTag. The technology also supports Apple CarKey to unlock compatible vehicles with an iPhone or Apple Watch, quick AirPlay transfer, more efficient AirDrop, and the precise location used by the Find My network.
What could the addition of UWB technology mean for Mac? If Apple is bringing the U1 chip to its computers, it would enable support for Apple’s Find My network and data transfers like AirDrop. However, it is important to keep in mind that not even the latest iPad models feature this technology as of right now. So we do not know when Apple could release Macs and iPads with the U1 chip.
The Cupertino tech giant is rumored to be holding its first special event of the year this spring in late April or early May so we might learn more about its plans to expand ultra wideband technology across its ecosystem at the event.
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