macOS Ventura 13.1 released with Freeform app, iCloud security improvements and more

Apple has released macOS Ventura 13.1 to all users with Freeform app, Advanced Data Protection for iCloud, and multiple bug fixes and improvements.

macOS Ventura 13.0 was previously released to the public with Stage Manager for improved multitasking, improvements to gaming, enhanced continuity features, and updates to first-party apps like Safari, Mail, Spotlight, Messages, and more.

macOS Ventura 13.1

December 14 – Apple has released the final version of macOS Ventura 13.1 to all users. The update features the new Freeform app for creative collaboration, advanced data protection for additional iCloud services through end-to-end encryption, and multiple bug fixes and improvements.

Here are the complete release notes from Apple:

Freeform
– Freeform is a new app for working creatively with friends or colleagues on Mac, iPad and iPhone
– A flexible canvas lets you add files, images, stickies, and more

Advanced Data Protection for iCloud
– New option expands the total number of iCloud data categories protected using end-to-end encryption to 23 — including iCloud Backup, Notes, and Photos — protecting your information even in the case of a data breach in the cloud

This update also includes the following improvements and bug fixes:
– Improved search in Messages allows you to find photos based on their content, like a dog, car, person, or text
– Participant Cursors in Notes allow you to see live indicators as others make updates in a shared note
– Play sound in Find My app can now help you pinpoint the location of nearby AirTags, AirPods Pro (2nd generation) case, and Find My network accessories
– Fixes an issue that causes some notes not to sync with iCloud after updates are made
– Fixes an issue where you may lose keyboard and mouse input in some apps and games

Some features may not be available for all regions, or on all Apple devices.
For detailed information about the security content of this update, please visit: https://support.apple.com/kb/HT201222

December 7 – Apple has seeded the release candidate to developers.

December 1 – Apple has released the fourth beta to developers.

November 16 – Apple has released the third beta to developers. This update fixes some issues with the Freeform app.

November 8 – Apple has released the second beta to developers. As per the release notes, the below issue with the TV app has been fixed:

Play tracking (Up Next, and Top Shelf Update) won’t work for all platforms.

October 26 – In the release notes, Apple has shared a number of known issues with the Freeform app, so we don’t recommend that you use it for important work yet.

Can’t delete boards while offline, or if iCloud data is disabled for Freeform. (100294085)
- Workaround: Go to Settings (System Setting on macOS) > Apple ID > iCloud, then in the Apps using iCloud section, toggle Freeform to On.
Adding or removing collaborators can fail while attempting to change share settings. (101186059)
- Workaround: Close the share sheet and try to add or remove the participants again.
Inserting a sticky or a file might result in an unexpected error. (100883621)
- Workaround: Quit and relaunch Freeform.

If your Mac was already enrolled in Apple’s developer beta program, you should be able to update to the new beta by going to System Preferences > General > Software Update. If you are not in the beta program, you can register with the Apple Developer Center for $99/year, which will allow you to enroll your Mac and receive beta updates.

macOS Ventura 13.1

Imran Hussain