Apple Podcast Subscriptions is the most visible new feature in the updated macOS Big Sur 11.4, now publicly available.
Apple releases macOS Big Sur 11.4
Following four rounds of beta versions, Apple has now publicly released macOS Big Sur 11.4, which will now also be supplied pre-installed on new Macs. As ever, the company has not provided any extensive details about the update, but it does feature two significant additions.
For this release, Apple has included support for its Apple Podcast Subscriptions, enabling listeners to pay for podcasts through the service. The Podcasts app also enables the grouping of collections of shows from specific podcast creators.
An important, if not entirely visible change, is that macOS 11.4 now supports graphics cards based on AMD's Navi RDNA 2 architecture, including the 6800, 6800XT, and 6900XT.
Compared to the previous Big Sur 11.3 update -- which introduced AirTag support, changes to Safari, and more -- this is a minor release. It does, however, feature unspecified bug fixes and overall performance improvements.
It is likely that the update also has some behind-the-scenes changes in preparation for new support for new Apple Music features that are on the way. As already announced, Apple Music will introduce higher-quality audio, beginning in June, including Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos support, and Lossless Audio options.
The update is now rolling out worldwide and compatible Macs will automatically prompt users to install it. Users can also go to System Preferences, Software Update, to begin the process.
This update to macOS comes shortly before Apple is due to announce the successor to Big Sur, at WWDC on June 7, 2021.
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