Time to take a visit to the Mac App Store’s Updates tab, because OS X 10.9.3 has arrived, along with iTunes 11.2. The latest update to Apple’s desktop operating system brings a number of bug fixes and improvements, while the new version of iTunes adds some enhancements for podcast listeners.
The Mavericks update improves support for 4K displays on the new Mac Pro as well as the 15-inch Retina MacBook (Late 2013), and improves the reliability of VPN connections that use the IPSec protocol. It also lists the ability to sync contacts and calendars between a Mac and iOS device using a USB connection—a feature that used to be the province of iTunes. It’s unclear at this point exactly what that entails. According to Apple’s knowledge base document about 10.9.3, the update also includes a fix for a problem that prevented Font Book from installing PostScript Type 1 fonts, improves reliability when dealing with SMB file servers or using a network home directory, has better stability when installing configuration profiles, and speeds up login for users in Active Directory groups.
There are also the usual security patches, though the knowledge base document detailing them had not been updated as of the writing of this article. OS X 10.9.3 had previously been available as a public beta via Apple’s recently launched Beta Seed program.
iTunes 11.2, meanwhile, makes a number of changes to its podcast support, an area that’s been a bit of a sore spot for many users. The Unplayed tab has been revamped, making it easier to find episodes you haven’t listened to, while a new Feed tab makes it easier to browse episodes available to download or stream. The update also touts the ability to save favorite episodes on your computer, as well as automatic deletion of episodes after playback. Like 10.9.3, iTunes 11.2 includes assorted security updates.
iTunes 11.2 rejiggers the app’s Podcast interface, which may please some frustrated users.
The Mavericks update is available via the Mac App Store, or at Apple’s support downloads site; iTunes, meanwhile, is available via the Mac App Store, Apple’s downloads site, or Apple’s iTunes site, and does not require OS X 10.9.3.
Updated at 2pm ET with more information about the Mavericks update.
Author: Dan Moren, Contributor
Dan has been writing about all things Apple since 2006, when he first started contributing to the MacUser blog. He's a prolific podcaster and the author of the Galactic Cold War series, including his latest, The Nova Incident.