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Operating system featuring social media, games and dictation

Operating system featuring social media, games and dictation

Vote: (429 votes)

Program license: Paid

Developer: Apple

Version: 10.8.5

Works under: Mac

Vote:

Program license

(429 votes)

Paid

Developer

Version

Apple

10.8.5

Works under:

Mac

Pros

  • Emulates iOS to maximize compatibility between other Apple devices
  • Emphasizes nearly universal access for all types of apps and content providers
  • Contains over 200 brand new features

Cons

  • Java is no longer pre-installed
  • RSS feeds are not supported anymore
  • AirPlay lacks surround sound

With OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion, Apple fully emerged as the top contender in computing. This profoundly upgraded operating system is responsible for bringing Mac technology into the modern day. The release of this version marked the beginning of full-fledged integration between Apple computers and the insanely popular iOS system from today's iPhones and iPads.

Ultimately, Mountain Lion enshrined over 200 unique software updates, and these upgrades are commonly considered a complete overhaul of its predecessors. Cross-platform integration is greatly accentuated by the inclusion of mobile synergy, and the introduction of iCloud support is downright revolutionary. This software's synchronization protocols are comprehensive and efficient.

In addition to the major renovations provided by Mountain Lion, there are also plenty of minor tweaks that can significantly boost the average user's productivity. For example, this version's Safari browser features the ability to share content universally with just one click. New security features are also granted, and one of the most popular add-ons is the easily accessible Passwords Tab.

Mountain Lion also signified the end of iChat by replacing it with Messages, which is nearly identical to the iMessages services for mobile platforms, and the services are practically interchangeable. Unlimited texts are provided for free via this app, and the interface fluidly supports Facetime conversations alongside robust file-sharing mechanisms. Furthermore, this edition marks the beginning of total Facebook support, and profile pictures from the site can be automatically loaded to individual contacts.

File preservation is also maximized, especially with the help of Time Machine. This back-up feature can incorporate multiple hard-drives to ensure users have several safe copies of their data. One of the top perks associated with Mountain Lion is the expanded compatibility within integral apps like Contacts, Mail and Calendar. These programs have conveniently evolved to support tons of different social media providers including Instagram, Gmail, Yahoo!, Flickr, Twitter, Microsoft Exchange, AOL and Vimeo.

Game Center is also packed with entertainment, and remote competition is enabled through AirPlay. Visuals can transmit at 1080p, but the audio quality stays in stereo. All of your favorite titles are stored in one organized area, so gaming has never been easier. Search functions are extensively advanced, but this boost comes at the expense of RSS support.

Other improvements include a vastly streamlined approach to printing documents and images. The Dashboard keeps everything looking sleek and running smoothly. Some key apps are no longer pre-installed, so users may have to seek out a few essential programs like Java, but the cornerstones are all still intact.

Pros

  • Emulates iOS to maximize compatibility between other Apple devices
  • Emphasizes nearly universal access for all types of apps and content providers
  • Contains over 200 brand new features

Cons

  • Java is no longer pre-installed
  • RSS feeds are not supported anymore
  • AirPlay lacks surround sound