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macOS

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description macOS Overview

macOS is a series of proprietary graphical operating systems developed by Apple Inc. for its Macintosh line of computers. Introduced in 2001 as Mac OS X, the system is built on a Unix-based foundation and succeeded the classic Mac OS used since 1984. The operating system features the Aqua graphical user interface and is known for its integration with Apple's broader hardware and software ecosystem, including iOS and iPadOS.

Regular annual updates provide new features, security enhancements, and improved frameworks for software developers.

help macOS FAQ

Can I run macOS on a custom-built Windows PC?

Running macOS on non-Apple hardware is possible through a community project known as OpenCore, creating what are called Hackintoshes. However, with Apple transitioning to Apple Silicon (M-series chips), Hackintosh setups are becoming increasingly difficult to maintain for the newest OS versions.

When did Apple transition from Mac OS X to macOS?

Apple officially rebranded the operating system from Mac OS X to macOS in 2016 with the release of macOS Sierra (version 10.12). This change was made to align the naming convention with their other operating systems, such as iOS, watchOS, and tvOS.

What is the underlying architecture foundation of modern macOS?

Unlike the classic Mac OS from 1984, modern macOS is built on a Unix-based foundation known as Darwin. This foundation incorporates code from NeXTSTEP, the operating system Steve Jobs developed at NeXT before returning to Apple in the late 1990s.

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