Apple this week released the first beta of macOS Monterey 12.3, which includes new features like Universal Control and Secure Notes in Safari’s password manager. The update also prepares Apple’s desktop operating system for new technologies, as internal system files hint at ultra wideband (or UWB) coming to the Mac.
The latest macOS 12 beta includes the frameworks and daemons (part of the system that runs in the background) needed to support ultra-wideband technology. These are the same tools already used to provide UWB support on iOS devices with the U1 chip.
For those unfamiliar, ultra-wideband technology is a short-range wireless communication protocol used for space awareness. In this way, two or more UWB devices in the same room can locate each other accurately.
Apple first introduced UWB technology to its devices with the iPhone 11 in 2019, then rolled it out to the Apple Watch, HomePod mini, and AirTags. Within Apple’s ecosystem, it enables faster AirDrop, CarKey authentication without even having to take the iPhone out of your pocket, fast AirPlay transfer, and precise location used by the Find My network.
These advantages could be extended to the Mac if Apple decides to bring the U1 chip to its computers. However, it’s worth noting that even the latest iPad models don’t have ultra-wideband technology, so the only certainty we have now is that Apple has been experimenting with UWB technology with more devices. It’s still unclear exactly when we’ll see Macs and iPads with the U1 chip.
Apple is rumored to be hosting a special event this spring, so maybe we’ll learn more about Apple’s plans to extend UWB technology to its devices at the event.
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