FileVault disk encryption was strengthened with FileVault 2. Other new features included the introduction of AirDrop, a peer-to-peer file-sharing technology that enables Mac users to exchange files over local Wi-Fi connections. QuickTime incorporated elements of the previously-available pay-to-play QuickTime Pro, ICal, Address Book, Safari and other core applications gained interface refinements and new features. Launchpad was also introduced, a new app that made it easier to find applications installed on the Mac.

Lion also introduced Mission Control, the unified interface for controlling the Dashboard, Finder windows and individual applications. IOS-style innovations introduced in Lion include support for fullscreen apps and multitouch gestures on trackpads and Apple's Magic Mouse. Subsequent releases like Mountain Lion and Mavericks have been download-only. Within a few weeks Apple offered a $69 USB flash drive as an option for users unable or unwilling to download the software. Initially, the only way to get it was to download a Lion installer from the Mac App Store for $29.99.

Lion would be the last OS X upgrade that Apple distributed on physical media. In total, Apple introduced 250 new or changed features in Lion. It was the eighth major release of OS X.Īpple first previewed Lion at a special event it called 'Back to the Mac.' The event's theme heralded Apple's strategy with Lion: to integrate technology and user experience elements the company had previously developed for use in iOS. OS X Lion is also the first Mac operating system to include the Mac App Store from the start.Īpple released OS X 10.7 Lion in July, 2011. OS X Lion saw more than 250 new features added including new multi-touch gestures, system-wide support for full-screen apps, Mission Control, Launchpad and a redesigned Mail app.

Mac os x 10.7 download apple