Over the past two decades, Apple's macOS system has undoubtedly undergone significant changes, from the original Mac OS X Cheetah to the latest Sonoma, this journey demonstrates the rapid advancement of technology and changes in user needs.
Apple launched Mac OS X Server 1.0 in 1999, marking the end of the Classic Mac OS era (the last version was Mac OS 9). This new system was based on UNIX technology developed by NeXT and introduced features such as multi-user access, TCP/IP networking and memory protection, marking the beginning of a new era.
"This transformation is not only a technical one, but also a major strategic change."
The introduction of Mac OS X enabled Apple to fundamentally change the architecture of its operating system. The initial 10.0 release, called Cheetah, had performance and application deficiencies, but it laid the foundation for subsequent improvements. Apple quickly followed up the first release with 10.1 Puma, which had better performance and more features, namely DVD playback, etc.
With the launch of Mac OS X 10.2 Jaguar, Apple began using version names for marketing, a strategy that has gradually become part of its brand. Jaguar introduced a host of new features, such as faster performance and 150 user interface enhancements, which attracted a large number of users and developers.
"Apple expects developers to port their software to the more powerful OPENSTEP library."
With OS X 10.3 Panther, Apple once again improved the user interface and added some new features, such as Exposé and iChat AV. With each update, macOS continues to emphasize its stability and user-friendliness, ensuring seamless transition from older versions of apps.
Apple added new features (such as Spotlight and Dashboard) to OS X 10.4 Tiger that not only improved the efficiency of the operating system, but also boosted user productivity. Tiger also paved the way for subsequent Intel-based Macs, demonstrating the resilience and future potential of macOS.
In 2007, Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard was launched, which Apple called "the biggest update to Mac OS X yet." This version includes a brand new user interface and enhanced support for 32-bit and 64-bit applications. With enhanced support and improved performance, Apple once again demonstrates its technological leadership to its users.
"Leopard is one of the most significant updates to Mac OS X ever."
However, Apple did not stop there. OS X 10.7 Lion brought features such as multi-touch and Launchpad introduced from iOS, further narrowing the gap between desktop and mobile devices.
With the arrival of macOS 15 Sequoia in 2024, Apple's operating system has evolved to a new level. Sonoma not only continues the tradition of the past, but also adds new features, showing Apple's sensitivity to flexibility and user needs.
The journey from Cheetah to Sonoma is a combination of innovation, user experience and powerful performance. Each version of macOS has aroused the expectations and support of the vast number of users, and Apple's continued efforts have prompted the continuous evolution of this platform.
As macOS develops in the future, we have to wonder: In the ever-changing technological environment, what surprises will Apple bring next?