Apple launches macOS Golden Gate 27 with AI-enhanced Siri and visual tools

Apple has made macOS Golden Gate 27 available as a free download for compatible Macs equipped with Apple silicon, excluding Intel-based models. Users can install the update through the Software Update pane in System Settings.

The release introduces Siri AI, an upgraded version of the voice assistant that leverages Apple Intelligence. Integrated with Spotlight, Siri AI can retrieve information from messages, mail, photos and other personal data, and it can execute tasks across apps. A dedicated Siri app syncs conversations via iCloud, and the feature can be enabled in Settings.

A new Visual Intelligence capability lets users select a portion of the screen and ask Siri to answer questions or act on the content, such as creating calendar events, using the shortcut Command-Shift-Space.

Photo editing receives enhancements, including Spatial Reframing to adjust composition after a shot is taken, an Extend tool to enlarge images, and improved Clean Up functions that remove distractions with realistic infill.

Safari gains automatic tab grouping by topic, a Notify Me feature that watches pages for changes like price drops, and a Describe an Extension option that allows users to create custom extensions through natural-language commands.

Shortcuts can now be generated by describing the desired automation, with the system assembling the necessary steps, for example, sending a text with estimated arrival time based on traffic.

Design refinements include updates to Liquid Glass for better readability, a new slider to adjust its opacity, uniform toolbars, edge-to-edge sidebars, and more detailed app icons.

Parental controls have been expanded with features such as Ask to Browse, which requires children to request permission before visiting new websites, and Communication Safety, which adds protections for online conversations. Time Allowances and scheduling options give parents more flexibility in managing app usage.

"Siri AI is rolling out to users, and you can get started by turning it on in Settings," the company said.

The update is distributed through the standard macOS software-update mechanism and does not require a separate purchase.