With the latest preview version of macOS Sequoia, Apple introduced a practical innovation that should be particularly helpful for users with small internal SSDs. From now on, large apps from the Mac App Store can be installed directly on an external hard drive without having to first land on the internal SSD.
The new settings of the Mac App Store | Screenshot: Jesse Hollington / iDrop News
Installation of large apps simplified
Previously, it was necessary to provide double storage space on the internal SSD to install large apps such as “Death Stranding Director's Cut” (77 gigabytes). This was a problem for many users, especially on devices with limited storage. The new macOS version solves this problem.
In the Mac App Store settings, there is an option that allows apps larger than 1 gigabyte to be installed directly on an external hard drive. This feature is disabled by default and must be enabled manually. Once the feature is enabled, a new application folder is automatically created on the external hard drive when large apps are installed.
Screenshot: Jesse Hollington / iDrop News
Flexible storage on the go
The new feature also offers the ability to move apps from the external hard drive to the internal SSD later if needed, provided there is enough space. However, it is important that the external hard drive remains connected as long as the app is launched from it.
This innovation is particularly interesting for users of older Macs with small SSDs or for those who want to save money on a new purchase by opting for a smaller SSD. External hard drives offer an inexpensive way to expand storage space without affecting the system's performance.
This means that macOS Sequoia will enable more flexible and efficient use of available storage space, especially for memory-intensive applications such as large games or creative applications downloaded from the Mac App Store.
