Apple's latest operating system update, macOS 27 Golden Gate, focuses on user interface refinements and enhanced external display capabilities, moving beyond the widely discussed AI features. The beta version introduces a more granular control over the "Liquid Glass" effect, allowing users to adjust its opacity via a slider in Appearance settings, a change from the previous binary toggle.
In terms of window design, Golden Gate reverts to a more traditional Big Sur-era aesthetic in some aspects. Sidebars now extend fully to the content area, and window corners are less rounded than in the previous Tahoe release, aiming to improve usability and consistency. The "hard-style" divider for toolbar areas is now the default, addressing readability issues with text over complex backgrounds. Most SF Symbols glyphs have also been removed from menu items, aligning with updated Human Interface Guidelines.
External display support sees notable improvements, including native support for 5K ultrawide monitors. Additionally, Macs running Golden Gate will be better at remembering window positions when switching between different display setups, a benefit for users who frequently connect and disconnect external monitors.