With every update Apple is improving their core operating systems, that are iOS and OS X. iOS 8 contains many new features, some are sheer copies of tweaks available in the Cydia store and some are taken from other smartphone operating systems. iOS 8 and OS X 10.10 Yosemite are now very well integrated. One example of this integration is receiving the iPhone calls and messages right on your desktop. You can reply to calls and texts without touching your iPhone.
This feature is already available in android in some form. Like, the popular “AirDroid” app lets you manage your device content including SMS right on the screen by using a browser provided you are on the same network. Apple, however, takes this integration up to the next level. You don’t have to start any software or browser on your Mac. Everything is done seamlessly.
There is a nifty trick which is very handy to record the calling conversation on Mac without using any specific software or hardware.
Whenever, your device is within the range of your Mac, both the device will synchronize themselves. However, the condition is the same as in the case of Android and that is your both device must be on the same WiFi network. Now when you get a phone call on your iPhone, you’ll also see a notification on your Mac. You can decline the call, send a reject-message or even answer the phone call. If you have built-in mic and speakers in the Mac, you won’t need to have a headphone.
This OS X and iOS integration is not one way, it is, in fact, two ways. You can use your Mac to make a call from the contacts, mail and safari apps. You can also start the new conversation, group sms and send an MMS from the Mac. iMessages are already present on both devices from Mavericks update but they are now well organized in the recent versions.
These new features are really helpful, not only at the individual level but also at the corporate level. They save both your time and effort. If you are in the living room and your phone is charging in the bedroom, you won’t need to go to the phone to answer the call or send a quick text to your friend or family member. Everything important is right on your bigger screen.
How This Feature Works or What is Required?
If you want to get this feature, you’ll have to wait a little more time. Once iOS 8 and OS X 10.10 Yosemite are out for public you can get this feature. Here are the requirements:
- iOS 8 running iPhone (iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPhone 5C and iPhone 5S)
- Mac, iMac, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air or any other computer running on yosemite 10.10 OS X.
- Same WiFi network for both devices
- And the most important same iCloud account on both devices
Once you are logged into both devices using the same iCloud account, your devices will connect automatically. There is no extra set up process or any software to control all these options.
It is to be informed that this integration is not limited to one iOS device to one OS X device. You can also receive the calls and SMS on your iPad as well. No matter how many devices you are using with the same iCloud account, all the devices will alert you that there is new notification to be answered. Isn’t it sweet?
