Embracing the new Mac experience: A fresh start
Remember when setting up a new Mac felt like a daunting task? We certainly do. My 2015 27-inch iMac sat in a box for a month before I plucked up the courage to set it up. But times have changed, and Apple has made the setup process easier. Despite this simplicity, there are still decisions to be made when starting fresh with a new Mac.
Every time I’m tempted to transfer data from my old Mac, I resist it. I’m worried that I might unintentionally import something I don’t need along with my data. Instead, I look at my new Mac as an opportunity to get a clean slate and evaluate what I really need from my digital life.
Golden key: Apple ID
Your Apple ID is more than just a login; it’s your gateway to the Apple ecosystem. Recent stories about companies like Nothing and Bleeper highlight the importance of Apple ID. We store passwords, payment information, and in some cases your ID. After a close call with a hacking attempt, I learned the hard way to make my Apple ID more secure. I now feel more protected thanks to strong passwords and two-factor authentication.
Securely sign in to iCloud and get instant access to essentials like calendar, email, notes, messages, and more. A smooth transition lets you get right to work or play.
Beyond the basics: Customize your new Mac
I tend to stick to Apple’s native apps, but I understand the need for those who prefer third-party apps. No matter your choice, the goal is to make sure your new Mac has only the tools you need and is optimized to work seamlessly with macOS.
When I review a Mac, such as the new M3 iMac, I approach the setup with the same meticulousness I always do. I use iCloud for email and cloud-based solutions for other accounts to keep my local storage organized.
The first three must-have apps for your new Mac
- drop box: Dropbox has been a trusted partner for 10 years and is my go-to for cloud storage. Its Smart Sync feature stands out, allowing you to access your files without having to save them locally. Despite its similarities to iCloud Drive, Dropbox’s price and reliability put it at the top of my list.
- Clean up your Mac: Some people may like it, others may not, but Clean My Mac is a valuable tool for me. This simplifies maintenance tasks and helps keep your Mac running smoothly. This is especially appreciated by non-technical experts.
- adobe creative cloud: For content creators, Adobe’s suite is essential. Whether it’s Premiere, Photoshop, or Lightroom, Adobe’s apps are part of my daily workflow. Despite the criticisms of the subscription model, the value I get is undeniable.
Each of these apps reflects my needs and preferences. Want to know about the top three essential apps for your Mac?
We anticipate that a new Mac mini with the M3 Pro chip may be released, so we’re ready to go through the setup process again. This may not be the quickest ritual, but it’s a process that has served me well over the years.
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