OS X Yosemite

OS X Yosemite: Frequently asked questions

In October 2014, Apple launched OS X Yosemite. We'd like to offer you a brief overview of OS X Yosemite and try to answer some questions you may have at this time.

What is OS X Yosemite?

OS X Yosemite is the newest version of the desktop operating system for Apple computers. It contains several new features and improvements that will make your computer more efficient and easier to use.

How much does it cost?

Nothing—OS X Yosemite is a free upgrade.

Who can get OS X Yosemite?

Anyone with an Apple computer using Snow Leopard, Lion, Mountain Lion, or Mavericks can upgrade to OS X Yosemite. The system requirements for Yosemite are the same as those for Mavericks. For a full list of hardware requirements, view the OS X Technical Specifications.

If you have an earlier version of OS X (such as Leopard), you cannot upgrade to OS X Yosemite.

How do I get OS X Yosemite?

If you buy a new Apple computer, it will come pre-installed. You won't need to do anything to install it.

If you want to upgrade an existing computer, you can download and install OS X Yosemite by going to the App Store on your Mac (shown below) and clicking Updates.

Opening the App Store from the Dock

OS X Yosemite is only available as an online download—you cannot purchase a physical copy at a retail store.

What's new in OS X Yosemite?

Each new version of OS X generally includes several new features, and OS X Yosemite is no exception. Below are some of the most important changes and features:

• A redesigned interface: Compared with earlier versions, OS X Yosemite has a simpler, flatter look. In many ways, it looks similar to iOS 8. The built-in apps have also been redesigned to be more streamlined. For example, many toolbars have been streamlined to save space, which should be especially helpful for laptops with smaller screens.
• Connecting with iOS devices: If you have an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch, OS X Yosemite will recognize your device when it is nearby. With some tasks, you can seamlessly switch from your computer to your device with a new feature called Handoff. For example, if you're typing an email on your Mac, you can finish typing it on your iPhone. Handoff works with many built-in apps and some third-party apps, but it won't work with all apps. Note that Handoff will not work with computers from 2011 or earlier.
• Internet tethering: If you use your laptop on the go, you typically need to find a Wi-Fi hotspot to access the Internet. However, if you have an iPhone or iPad with a data plan, you can now share the device's Internet connection with your laptop. This feature is commonly known as tethering, although in OS X Yosemite it is called Personal Hotspot. Keep in mind that if you have a limited amount of data for your iOS device, you may only want to use this feature for basic Internet usage; streaming movies or music can quickly use up your monthly data allottment.
• Spotlight improvements: As in earlier versions, Spotlight can be used to search for files, folders, apps, and more. In OS X Yosemite, Spotlight has been completely redesigned. Instead of just a simple menu, it now opens in a larger dialog box to make it easier to perform searches.
• iCloud Drive: You can now easily access iCloud from any Finder window. If you want to store a document or other file in the cloud, you can simply drag the file to the iCloud folder, and it will be automatically uploaded.

Will my apps still be there after I upgrade?

Any apps you previously had installed on your computer will still be there once you upgrade. Some Apple apps, such as Safari and Calendar, will be updated automatically when you upgrade.

Will my apps still work after I upgrade?

Almost all apps installed on your computer should work correctly in OS X Yosemite. However, as with any new operating system some software may not be totally compatible. A simple Google search will often be enough to tell if an app will be compatible with OS X Yosemite.