Big Sur OS vs. Monterey OS

Attribute	Big Sur OS	Monterey OS
Release Year	2020	2021
Version Number	11	12
Design	Redesigned UI with new icons and features	Continuation of Big Sur design with added enhancements
Features	Control Center, Notification Center, Safari improvements	Focus mode, Universal Control, AirPlay to Mac
Compatibility	Supported on various Mac models	Supported on newer Mac models

Design and User Interface

Big Sur OS introduced a major redesign to macOS, featuring a more streamlined and modern look. The user interface elements were flattened, and the icons were redesigned to be more consistent. The Control Center was also added, providing quick access to settings and controls. In contrast, Monterey OS builds upon the design changes introduced in Big Sur OS. It refines the user interface further, with updated icons and a more cohesive design language. The Control Center has been enhanced with new features and customization options, making it even more useful for users.

Features and Functionality

Big Sur OS brought several new features to macOS, such as the ability to customize the Safari start page, improved Messages app with pinned conversations and inline replies, and a redesigned Notification Center. It also introduced support for running iOS apps on Macs with Apple silicon. Monterey OS continues to build on these features, with enhancements to Safari that improve privacy and performance, a redesigned FaceTime experience with spatial audio and grid view, and the addition of Focus mode to help users stay focused on tasks. Additionally, Monterey OS introduces Universal Control, allowing users to seamlessly move between Mac and iPad with a single mouse and keyboard.

Performance and Compatibility

Big Sur OS brought performance improvements to macOS, with faster app launching and improved energy efficiency. It also introduced support for Apple silicon, allowing for better performance on Macs with Apple's custom processors. Monterey OS continues to improve performance, with optimizations for M1 Pro and M1 Max chips, resulting in faster rendering and processing speeds. It also maintains compatibility with a wide range of Mac models, ensuring that users can upgrade to the latest OS without compatibility issues.

Privacy and Security

Big Sur OS focused on enhancing privacy and security features, with improvements to Safari's tracking prevention and the introduction of privacy information on the App Store. It also introduced a new privacy report feature that shows users how websites are tracking them. Monterey OS continues to prioritize privacy and security, with enhancements to Mail that prevent tracking pixels and improvements to Intelligent Tracking Prevention in Safari. It also introduces Mail Privacy Protection, which hides users' IP addresses and prevents senders from knowing when an email has been opened.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Big Sur OS made strides in improving accessibility features, with enhancements to VoiceOver and new options for customizing display and text size. It also introduced Sound Recognition, which alerts users to important sounds such as doorbells and sirens. Monterey OS continues to focus on accessibility, with improvements to VoiceOver that make it easier to navigate websites and apps. It also introduces new features such as Background Sounds, which can help users focus or relax while working.