A Long Overdue Update for Mac Mail

For quite some time, I’ve been vocal about my frustrations with the Mac Mail app, and understandably so—its performance has been less than satisfactory. However, it now appears that Apple is finally giving this app the attention it deserves.

While I could have explored other email clients, I appreciate the convenience of using native apps that sync seamlessly across my devices. Unfortunately, Mail has lagged behind for far too long, making it a challenge to locate emails and missing many basic features.

Fortunately, the updates in Ventura and iOS & iPadOS 16 bring Mac Mail up to speed. One of the standout features is the ability to "Undo Send," allowing users to retract an email if an error is made—albeit within a brief 10-second window. In comparison, Gmail offers a wider range of recall options lasting up to 30 seconds. Who knows, perhaps future updates will extend this timeframe for Mac Mail?

But that’s not all; users can now schedule emails for a specific date and time and receive reminders for emails that need a response. Mac Mail will also highlight important attachments and allow sent emails to be moved to the top of your inbox for follow-up. The search functionality has reportedly improved significantly as well. With these enhancements, I'm hopeful that Mail will feel much more modern and efficient.

The Revamped Messages App

The immensely popular Messages app is receiving a host of new features, aligning it with other messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram.

Reflecting on WWDC, I’ve been considering the highlights from the keynote. The most exciting updates include the new editing and unsending options in iOS 16. Users will now have a 15-minute window to make changes to or recall messages—a significant improvement over previous limitations.

Additionally, it appears quite straightforward to use these features; a simple tap and hold on a message reveals the options.

This year, SharePlay expands beyond FaceTime and is now integrated into Messages, allowing users to share movies and songs in real time with friends. This feels more personal compared to the previous implementation in FaceTime, and I’m eager to try it out.

Collaborative Features in Messages

These features are currently in beta, with the first version made available to developers right after the keynote. A public beta is expected in July, leading up to a full release later on.

Moreover, Messages will introduce new collaborative capabilities, enabling users to share notes, reminders, and Safari tab groups with colleagues.

Intelligent Tools for Enhanced Communication

Intelligence, powered by AI, will also find its way into Messages. This feature will allow users to extract subjects from backgrounds, making it easier to incorporate them into various applications.

Continuity Features: Camera and Handoff

Continuity Camera is another exciting development, allowing users to utilize the powerful rear camera of their iPhone for video calls on their Mac. This feature automatically recognizes the iPhone’s camera when brought close to the Mac, seamlessly integrating into apps like FaceTime, QuickTime, Teams, or Zoom. Users can choose to use the iPhone's camera while utilizing the Mac's microphones, maximizing audio and visual quality.

Additionally, the introduction of Handoff to FaceTime allows users to start a call on their phone and switch to their Mac as they arrive home, enhancing the overall communication experience.

Final Thoughts on Upcoming Features

What features are you looking forward to in iOS 16, iPadOS 16, or Ventura?

Engage with Me!

I invite you to connect with me through various channels. Join my Discord server or subscribe to my weekly newsletter where I share insights and updates every Sunday. If you enjoy my blogs, consider subscribing to Medium for unlimited access to a wealth of content from various writers.

Keep your Mac running smoothly with CleanMyMac—my preferred tool for maintaining peak performance.