I always find the experience of getting a new MacBook exciting. From the slow-opening box to the fresh install of macOS and that enchanting new Mac smell people have been rhapsodizing about for decades – it’s all part of the charm.
However, MacBooks don’t come perfectly set up out of the box. There are a few things I always need to adjust, regardless of the laptop’s power. From changing default apps to unlocking hidden extras, here are the first six things to do with your new MacBook before using it.
Unlock enhanced trackpad features
Apple’s trackpads are known for their quality, but some features are hidden by default. By exploring the Trackpad settings in System Preferences, you can customize and enable useful features like App Exposé. This lets you swipe downwards to view all open windows for the selected app, offering a cleaner alternative to Mission Control.
Additionally, enabling trackpad dragging with drag lock simplifies moving items without accidentally dropping them, providing a smoother experience.
Optimize battery performance
To enhance battery life, adjust settings like screen saver activation time and display brightness to maximize efficiency. Customizing power settings can further optimize battery usage without compromising performance.
Disable auto brightness adjustment
Manually adjusting brightness settings and enabling features like True Tone can improve visibility and reduce eye strain in various lighting conditions, offering a more comfortable viewing experience.
Set new default apps
Personalize your MacBook by changing default apps for a tailored experience. Adjust settings for web browsers, email clients, and file types to suit your preferences and workflow.
Explore web browser extensions
Enhance your browsing experience with useful browser extensions for added functionality and convenience. Install extensions that improve security, productivity, and overall online experience.
Enable FileVault for enhanced security
Enhance the security of your MacBook by enabling FileVault encryption to protect your data in case of theft or unauthorized access. Opt out of unnecessary data sharing and regularly review app permissions for enhanced privacy.
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