14 DAY TRIAL // Apple this week launched OS X 10.9.2, the second incremental update to its Mavericks operating system which improves the stability, compatibility, and security of every Mac.
OS X 10.9.2 was a highly expected security release, making everyone forget about the new features and enhancements that were originally planned for this update.
In addition to fixing the SSL/TSL flaw reported over the past few days, OS X 10.9.2 comes with a wide range of new additions, including the ability to make and receive FaceTime audio calls, call waiting support for FaceTime audio and video calls, and the ability to block incoming iMessages from individual people.
Other apps are treated to just as many tweaks and updates, such as Mail, which includes general improvements stability and compatibility, improved accuracy of unread counts, and resolved issues that prevented Mail from receiving new messages from providers in certain areas.
As far as the Safari browser is concerned, AutoFill compatibility is greatly enhanced, and Apple also throws in a security fix for a WebKit flaw where “Visiting a maliciously crafted website may lead to an unexpected application termination or arbitrary code execution.”
An issue that may cause audio distortion on certain Macs is fixed in 10.9.2, and reliability when connecting to a file server using SMB2 is improved. SMB2 was one of the key areas of testing in the 10.9.2 development cycle.
Furthermore, the update fixes an issue that may cause VPN connections to disconnect, an issue that could cause the Mac App Store to recommend updates for apps that have been updated already, and an issue that prevented certain preference panes from launching.
Improvements are made to VoiceOver navigation in Mail and Finder and VoiceOver reliability when navigating websites, compatibility with Gmail Archive mailboxes and labels, Safari browsing and Software Update installation when using an authenticated web proxy, and diskless NetBoot service in OS X Server.
The Braille driver for specific HandyTech displays is more reliable now, and ExpressCard compatibility is improved on some MacBook Pro 2010 models.
10.9.2 includes the much needed fix for SSL connection verification and resolves an issue with printers shared by Windows XP. It fixes a flaw with Keychain that could cause repeated unlock prompts, and addresses a bug involving Safe Boot.
The full Security Update 2014-001, which patches dozens of security flaws, is embedded in OS X Mavericks 10.9.2. Needless to point out, the update is a very important one for all users.