The topic Apple has started replacing macOS names with version numbers in several ways is currently the subject of lively discussion — readers and analysts are keeping a close eye on developments.
This is taking place in a dynamic environment: companies’ decisions and competitors’ reactions can quickly change the picture.
Among Apple’s slate of software platforms, macOS is an outlier in having its own brand name (e.g., macOS Golden Gate) instead of just a number. But some new signs indicate Apple may be shifting toward number versioning.
Over the past day, Apple has updated a variety of its Mac-focused support pages to replace macOS version names with version numbers instead.
In several cases, switching to version numbers instead of names is the only change on each page.
There are several more that have switched to numbers instead of names too, alongside broader content updates.
Interestingly, Apple also seems to be leaning more into numbering with the just-introduced macOS Golden Gate.
I don’t want the names to go away completely, but I’ve completely last track of the names post-Big Sur. The numbers being more prominent will help make it easier to remember when older versions released.
On its preview website for the update, it repeatedly uses the name “macOS 27 Golden Gate” rather than just “macOS Golden Gate.”
Some of Apple’s press releases from WWDC last week actually remove the name altogether, calling it simply “macOS 27.” You’ll find examples here in the first paragraph, and here in the availability section. Last year, the company used “macOS Tahoe 26” or “macOS Tahoe” in similar press releases.
This doesn’t necessarily mean macOS Golden Gate will be the last OS version with a name. But it could be a hint that we’re moving that direction.
Do you think Apple should switch to only version numbers for macOS, or keep using names? Let us know in the comments.