What’s new for Enterprise in macOS Sequoia

Apple’s latest iteration of macOS, Sequoia (15.x), brings major advancements tailored to enterprise environments. Building on previous releases, Sequoia sharpens the focus on security, device management, and performance—helping IT teams deliver stronger, more reliable fleets. In this blog, we’ll outline the key enterprise-focused enhancements and delve deeper into each update, starting with the 15.0 release and tracing through core changes in the latest 15.5, along with ongoing refinements in subsequent incremental updates.

What devices use macOS Sequoia?

macOS Sequoia is supported on a range of Apple devices, continuing Apple’s transition into an all-Apple Silicon ecosystem. Here’s the official list of compatible Macs:

• iMac (2019 and later)
• iMac Pro (2017)
• MacBook Air (2020 and later)
• MacBook Pro (2018 and later)
• Mac Pro (2019 and later)
• Mac Studio (2022 and later)
• Mac mini (2018 and later)

Is it advisable to upgrade to macOS Sequoia?

Upgrading to macOS Sequoia is advisable for most enterprise environments—especially those looking to capitalize on:

• Enhanced security layers: From Gatekeeper hardening to improved malware defenses.
• Smarter device management: Full declarative MDM support, fine-grained Safari and disk controls.
• Seamless user experience: Platform SSO, redesigned system settings, and improved login automation.
• Apple Intelligence readiness: If using Apple Silicon devices, organizations can unlock local AI assistance features for productivity and automation.

However, it’s essential to test the OS in controlled environments before mass rollout. Certain apps—especially legacy or industry-specific software—may need compatibility verification. Hexnode UEM can help orchestrate phased deployments, enforce update timelines, and monitor user impact during OS transition.

It’s important to note that while older Intel-based Macs like the 2019 MacBook Pro are still supported, many of Sequoia’s AI-based and advanced management features are exclusive to Apple Silicon (M1 or later). For enterprise IT teams, this compatibility map helps in planning hardware lifecycle, OS deployment, and deciding which devices are worth upgrading or replacing.

macOS Sequoia 15.0 – A major leap for enterprise device management

The 15.0 release lays foundational advancements in how IT teams manage and secure macOS via MDM.

Device management enhancements in macOS Sequoia

Apple continues its push toward declarative, policy-driven administration with macOS Sequoia. These enhancements are especially relevant for UEM platforms like Hexnode, enabling tighter control, better compliance, and reduced friction in device management at scale.

1. Granular safari extension control
macOS Sequoia empowers UEM solutions with deeper control over the Safari browsing environment. Admins can now:

• Whitelist or blacklist specific Safari extensions, not just enable or disable Safari as a whole.
• Define website access per extension, allowing for highly contextual restrictions (e.g., allowing a password manager on internal tools but blocking it elsewhere).

This level of specificity is critical in industries like finance, healthcare, and education where browser behavior must align with strict compliance standards. For Hexnode customers, this enhancement ensures Safari becomes as governable as Chrome or Edge in a corporate setting—without needing a third-party browser.

2. Disk access & external volume management
With data exfiltration risks growing, macOS Sequoia introduces new disk control policies through MDM:

• Full permission control over external USB and network drives.
• Ability to enforce read-only mounts—allowing access to external files while preventing unauthorized write operations.
• Option to completely disable access to removable storage across the fleet.

For IT admins managing BYOD or frontline macOS deployments, this eliminates the gray areas around data portability. Hexnode UEM can leverage these configurations to build robust DLP (Data Loss Prevention) policies that are both proactive and enforceable.

3. Declarative software updates (DDM-Driven)
Software update management undergoes a fundamental shift in Sequoia, thanks to full support for Declarative Device Management (DDM):

• Define update deadlines, schedules, and behaviors declaratively through MDM.
• Push updates without needing custom scripts or configuration profiles.
• Automate status monitoring and enforcement logic, reducing the need for manual follow-ups.

This is a major leap from the reactive workflows in traditional MDM. For Hexnode, this means smarter update orchestration with lower admin overhead and higher consistency. Enterprises can now roll out updates during non-peak hours, enforce compliance windows, and ensure minimal disruption—all with a single declarative policy.

4. Secured deployment of executables and scripts
macOS Sequoia introduces a secure channel for deploying enterprise-specific executables, scripts, and launchd jobs:

• MDM can push signed executables directly into system-protected locations, where tampering is not permitted.
• Launch daemons and agents can be configured remotely for background tasks or enterprise automation.
• Supports secure installation of custom tooling—such as telemetry collectors, VPN connectors, or patching agents—without opening security loopholes.

For highly regulated sectors that depend on custom in-house tools, this removes the risks associated with local installs or user-dependant configurations. With Hexnode, organizations can safely deploy essential components across their macOS fleet—without compromising endpoint integrity or relying on post-enrollment scripts.

5. Readiness for platform SSO and ID federation
Though not a device management feature per se, Sequoia’s support for Platform Single Sign-On (SSO) and declarative identity configurations streamlines device provisioning. Through MDM:

• Identity providers (like Microsoft Entra ID or Okta) can be integrated natively into the macOS login experience.
• Enrolled devices can be linked to organizational identities right from boot, enabling seamless access to enterprise resources and configurations.
• Paired with declarative device identity, this allows for zero-touch onboarding workflows that tie users, devices, and policies from day one.

Hexnode can build on this to help IT teams reduce provisioning time, eliminate dependency on manual logins or identity tools, and make identity the foundation of macOS fleet management.

macOS Sequoia’s device management enhancements align perfectly with the shift toward proactive, policy-centric enterprise IT. From granular app controls to disk security and declarative automation, Apple is empowering UEM vendors like Hexnode to deliver more intelligent, secure, and efficient macOS management than ever before.

System settings & enrollment enhancements

1. Profiles → Device management: A straightforward rename, positioning MDM configurations under System Settings ▸ General ▸ Device Management for better clarity.

2. Zero friction MDM re‑enrollment: Running profiles renew -type enrollment no longer requires admin credentials if the Mac isn’t already MDM-enrolled—easing certificate and token refreshes.

3. Platform SSO & Kerberos enhancements: New authentication options and Kerberos payload keys empower granular enterprise SSO integration using Platform SSO—reducing credential hopping.

4. Prevented iPhone mirroring: MDM policies can now disable iPhone Mirroring—helpful when restricting UI features in kiosk-mode or public‑access devices.

5. Protected system extensions: By policy, MDM can disallow users from disabling critical system extensions—preventing unauthorized tampering.

6. Skip welcome setup: Automated device enrollment now supports skipping the “Welcome to Mac” screens in Setup Assistant for streamlined deployment.

Expanded control & privacy

1. Hardware MAC address reports: MDM can inject specific hardware Wi‑Fi MAC addresses for network whitelisting prep—even if randomization is enabled.

2. System extension protection: Preventing tampering extends across GUI and CLI—securing kernel or driver-level enterprise tools.

3. Application firewall logging on by default: Outbound/inbound firewall logging is now enabled by default to assist forensic investigation of authorized & blocked traffic.

4. Privacy permissions prompts on local network access: Third-party apps must now explicitly request local network permissions and prompt users—boosting transparency in enterprise environments.

Security core improvements

1. Manual invocation of XProtect: Through xprotect command, IT can trigger on‑demand Apple’s built‑in malware scanning engine for threat hunting or post‑incident checks.

2. Unbreakable gatekeeper: Gatekeeper (spctl) can no longer be disabled—locking down unverified code execution on Sequoia devices.

3. Support for PKCS12 with AES‑256‑CBC: Enhanced encryption standards supported in the Security framework—key for certificate and secure key deployments.

Deprecated & removed items

1. Legacy DirectoryService plug‑ins dropped: Third-party plug‑in models have been deprecated—Apple now directs developers toward modern Platform SSO.

2. Profile‑based user enrollment removed: macOS 15.0 marks the last version supporting profile-based User Enrollment; Apple encourages Managed Apple Accounts via Settings instead.

Bug fixes & polishing

Sequoia 15.0 also includes comprehensive fixes:
1. Home directory changes now trigger privacy prompts: dscl or dsimport operations that change user home directories now behave correctly with Privacy frameworks.

2. Pre‑approval of sysadmin access apps: MDM can whitelist executables for SystemPolicySysAdminFiles—granting sudo-level access to pre‑authorized tools.

3. Firewall toggles require CLI: GUI changes to firewall now force use of socketfilterfw CLI, reducing accidental policy fluff.

4. sudo default logging disabled by default: Enables IT to configure logging policy via sudoers, aligning with enterprise log management standards.

5. Peak performance in endpoint security: Live endpoint detection—including kernel-level security host extensions—are optimized for performance and detection speed.

6. Improved auto‑login reliability: Improvements to AutologinUsername + AutologinPassword settings now restore expected behavior—great for kiosks or public‑access Macs.

7. Hidden Wi‑Fi reconnection fixed: Macs regain auto‑connect reliability to SSIDs with hidden or managed network profiles.

macOS Sequoia 15.0.1 – Key stabilization & enterprise fixes

Released October 2024, version 15.0.1 applies important patches aimed at enterprise-grade stability and compatibility:

• Improved compatibility with third‑party security software: Enhancements ensure leading endpoint protection solutions—antivirus, EDR, network security agents—integrate more smoothly into Sequoia Mac environments.
• Enhanced reliability for Safari single‑sign‑on (SSO): SSO flows—especially those driven via Kerberos or corporate identity providers—are now more stable in Safari on Sequoia devices.

These refinements may seem minor, but in large deployments, consistent compatibility and seamless authentication are non-negotiable foundations for enterprise productivity.

Ongoing refinements: Beyond 15.0.1

Apple continues to expand enterprise capabilities through incremental Sequoia updates:

Sequoia 15.1

• MDM can now manage “Writing Tools” and Mail summarization settings.
• Deprecated content capture prompts can be silently suppressed via MDM.
• Admin override for media sharing is now controllable.
• Passcode policy–driven logins now complete without delay.
• Update resilience when user home directories are invalidated.
• APNs-based VPNs more stable.
• Improved content-filtering networking stability.

Sequoia 15.2

• Enhancements focus on AI integrations and network protections:
• Apple Intelligence integrations managed by MDM, including ChatGPT.
• MDM can disable image generation in Apple’s Image Playground.
• AirPlay payloads now include DeviceName and deprecated DeviceID for legacy compatibility.
• OpenSSH reset option via man apple_ssh_and_fips in Terminal.
• Safari MFA using hardware security keys now more reliable.
• Video conferencing and DNS stability improved under firewall + content filters.
• Service discovery via enrollment redirects work with account-driven MDM in ASM/ABM.

Sequoia 15.3

• Continued fine-tuning, especially for AI and networking:
• Apple Intelligence enabled by default during setup or update—MDM can suppress via setup pane skip.
• Workspace ID enforcement in MDM for external AI services like ChatGPT.
• Disable transcription summarization in Notes via MDM.
• Firewall + content filters now support AirPlay & VPN conferencing reliably.

Sequoia 15.4

• New AI-powered “Image Playground – Sketch” style for creative tasks.
• Memory Movies in Photos app created using natural language prompts.
• Mail app introduces automatic categorization (Primary, Transactions, Updates, Promotions).
• Over 130 security issues addressed, including AirDrop, AppleMobileFileIntegrity, and CoreCrypto.
• Support for attestation in Platform SSO extensions.
• New key: AccountName=com.apple.PlatformSSO.AccountShortName allows UPN prefix-based macOS account naming.
• New restrictions supported via MDM on supervised Macs:
• Allows Safari summary – Controls AI-generated webpage summaries.
• Allows Notes transcription – Blocks AI transcription in Notes.
• Allows Mail smart replies – Prevents AI-generated email replies.
• Allows Apple Intelligence reports – Disables on-device AI reports.
• Allows video conferencing remote control – Restricts remote control during presentations.

Sequoia 15.4.1

• CoreAudio vulnerability (CVE-2025-31200): Prevents malicious media content from executing arbitrary code.
• RPAC (Pointer Authentication) vulnerability (CVE-2025-31201): Patched an actively exploited bug allowing bypass of pointer authentication.
• Resolved macOS update reliability issues (especially failures during 15.4 install).General performance and stability improvements.

Sequoia 15.5

Limited enterprise–specific notes logged, but ongoing security patches and stability fixes continue (e.g. Screen Time, UI reliability).

Executive summary: Sequoia’s enterprise highlights

Strategic benefits for enterprise

1. Tightened compliance: With read‑only external disks, firewall and privacy enforcement, devices now meet higher audit and compliance standards.

2. Simplified deployment & lifecycle: Less need for interactive admin input, thanks to zero‑credential re‑enrollment and declarative update flows.

3. Security by default: System extension lockdowns, malware scan invocation, and robust Gatekeeper make Sequoia a secure default OS.

4. Modern SSO integration: Kerberos and Platform SSO updates reduce friction in enterprise authentication flows.

5. Better user‑managed experiences: iPhone Mirroring controls and streamlined Workflow dialogues respect both user and IT boundaries.

What are the downsides of macOS Sequoia?

While macOS Sequoia introduces significant enterprise advancements, a few downsides are worth noting:

1. Hardware-dependent features: Many newer capabilities—especially Apple Intelligence and declarative identity support—are limited to Apple Silicon Macs only, leaving Intel users behind.

2. Deprecation of older workflows: Features like profile-based User Enrollment and DirectoryService plug-in support have been removed. Organizations still dependent on these will need to migrate workflows and retrain IT teams.

3. Compatibility gaps: Some third-party apps, especially those involving kernel extensions or deep system-level access, may not work out of the box without updates.

4. More locked-down architecture: While this is a win for security, it limits power-user tweaks and tools that were possible in older macOS versions.

5. Learning curve for declarative MDM: Organizations unfamiliar with declarative management models may require time and documentation to adapt fully.

For UEM admins, the transition to Sequoia should be strategic and phased, ensuring policy compliance and minimal disruption. Hexnode’s role here becomes central—offering pre-deployment testing, version-based enforcement, and update management workflows tailored to enterprise readiness.

Recommendations for IT teams

1. Audit your MDM profiles: Ensure Safari extension policies, disk settings, declarative update schedules, and privacy controls are in use across your fleet.

2. Upgrade endpoint tools: Test and validate compatibility with Sequoia 15.0.1+, especially security agents and VPN/APNs services.

3. Plan SSO payload rollouts: Update Kerberos and SSO configurations to leverage new payload options.

4. Enroll user education protocols: Communicate to users the changes in privacy prompts, home directory behavior, and firm firewall UX.

5. Test legacy workflows: Legacy DirectoryService plug-ins and profile-based enrollments no longer work—migrate early.

Conclusion

macOS Sequoia marks a pivotal shift in Apple’s enterprise strategy—sharpening controls, deepening security, and delivering frictionless device management aligned with modern IT demands. The robust updates across Sequoia 15.0 and 15.0.1 emphasize compatibility, declarative configuration, and default lockdowns—turning average Macs into enterprise-grade endpoints.

For IT leaders, upgrading to Sequoia—and ensuring your fleet operates on at least version 15.0.1—is a clear path to stronger compliance, smoother deployments, and more resilient security postures. Stay ahead by implementing these features, refining MDM policies to match, and enabling your users with secure productivity in the modern workplace.