Running out of internal storage space on your Mac? With macOS Sequoia 15.1, you can now directly install large applications on external storage media such as an SSD or a USB-C key. An easy and economical solution.
Why external storage?
Apple is known for its high prices on adding internal storage when purchasing a new Mac. Since upgrading the internal drive is usually not possible after purchase (except Mac Pro, the others are not officially open to this practice), external drives are the silver bullet for many users requiring more of space.
Thanks macOS Sequoia 15.1
In previous versions of macOS, apps from the App Store were automatically installed on the startup disk. Now with macOS Sequoia 15.1, apps larger than 1 GB can be installed on an external drive. Handy for AAA games or important apps like Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, etc. Yes, there’s more than just Apple Intelligence news in life.
How to Install Apps on External Storage:
- Connect your external drive to your Mac
- Open the App Store: Launch the Mac App Store.
- Access Settings:
- Click “App Store” in the menu bar.
- Select “Settings…”
- Configure External Installation:
- Check the box next to “Download and install large applications on a separate disk.”
- From the drop-down menu, choose your external drive.
Important Notes:
- The external drive must be connected when enabling this setting and must be formatted in APFS for best compatibility.
- Some application data may still reside on the primary disk, depending on the application architecture.
- You can’t selectively choose which apps install where; This is a global setting for all eligible applications.
Performance Tips:
- For optimal application performance, opt for a fast external SSD or an internal SSD in an external enclosure. A Crucial X9 1TB is as good for the PS5 as the Mac at €99 on Amazon.
This new feature in macOS Sequoia has been anticipated for years. Who among you needed it?
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