Macintosh® computer software is noted for its strength in creative fields. Office work, web development, home use, and computer maintenance types of applications can also be found for Macintosh®. Special software can be installed to allow the software designed for other operating systems to be used.
Traditionally, Macintosh® operating systems are favored by creative professionals, such as graphic designers. The premier illustration and photo editing applications all have Macintosh® versions. Hobbyists can also find applications for their graphic design needs.
Video and audio is another category strength for Macintosh® computer programs. These professionals and hobbyists frequently choose Macintosh® computers because there are a number of powerful and easy to use applications of this type. Multimedia designers, who often incorporate graphics, video and audio into their creations, can use Macintosh® OS multimedia authoring software.
Office applications are other popular software programs. Users can choose from several brands of word processors, spreadsheet, and presentation applications. Many of these open and save documents in other software brands’ file formats, so Macintosh® users can easily share their office documents with users of other major products.
Basic productivity programs such as email clients, calendars, and contact applications come installed on the Macintosh®. This also includes calculators, dictionaries, clocks, and weather programs. A web browser is installed, and several browser developers offer Macintosh® versions. Macintosh® users can also use instant messaging and chat software.
Development staff may find Macintosh® software for their work. Database developers can select Macintosh® versions for computer data work. Web designers and developers will find some applications have Macintosh® versions. These may range from simple text editors to full featured web development environments.
Web developers can install web server software on their personal systems. After the server software is installed, the computer can then support applications such as certain web content management systems. This allows for testing without affecting files on the web server.
Macintosh® computer software offers entertainment options as well. Games are popular for children and adults alike. Those who enjoy reading can install e-reader applications and read their books on their Mac.
Other essential Macintosh® computer software includes back up programs. Although less likely to be a target for viruses, anti-virus applications are written for the Macintosh®. Utility programs, such as monitoring applications and disk utilities, are available.
Application software that a user needs might be unavailable in a Macintosh® computer software version, but a type of software called a virtual machine can be installed. Once the virtual machine is installed, another operating system can be added. Software that is written for the other operating system, such as a PC program, can now be used.