MacBook Neo buyers may want to start with third-party apps that broaden productivity and how they use the device beyond the default apps. On April 16, IT outlet TechRadar recommended seven Mac apps focused on document work, schedule management, web browsing, app maintenance, audio control, video conferencing and video playback.

First are apps that ease the burden of adapting to the operating system. For users switching from Windows, Microsoft 365 is a leading option. With Microsoft 365, document tools such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint can be used on MacOS without major inconvenience, helping users keep their familiar environment while adapting to a new OS.

For schedule management, Flexibits' Fantastical was named. It offers a wider range of functions than the built-in MacOS calendar and automatically adds related details when users enter events. It also supports reminders and to-do management, along with integration with Microsoft 365 and iCloud, making it easier to handle work and personal schedules in one place.

For web browsing, using a second browser alongside Safari was suggested. Google Chrome was cited for its speed and simple interface, while Firefox was noted for its privacy policy and extension ecosystem.

For additional functions, options include uBlock Origin, which blocks web-page ads and phishing risks, and Consent-O-Matic, which automatically blocks cookies. These browsers are seen as offering both privacy protection and ease of use.

In app management, Nektony's App Cleaner & Uninstaller was included. It cleans up leftover files from deleted programs, filling gaps that MacOS could miss. It can also manage startup programs and extensions and keep up with security patches and the latest functions. It was described as the best choice for users unfamiliar with the Mac environment who want a tool to manage installed apps at once.

For audio control, SoundSource was recommended. It lets users adjust volume by app and set specific apps louder or quieter. It also allows separate routing, such as sending one app's output to MacBook speakers and another's to headphones. Its distinguishing feature is support for fine-grained control that is difficult to achieve with only the keyboard's default volume buttons.

For communication, Zoom, which is already widely used, was recommended. Zoom is a video-conferencing service popularised during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it was cited for being easy to set up and use. In addition to backgrounds, filters, group calls and meeting functions, it also provides artificial intelligence features that transcribe and summarise call content. It was recommended as a tool that can cover everything from family calls to work meetings.

For video playback, VLC was suggested. Apple’s default video player QuickTime may not be able to play all video formats, so a free player that supports many file extensions may be needed. VLC supports not only MacOS but also Windows and Linux.

These apps are tools that quickly fill gaps that first-time MacBook users may find hard to cover with default apps alone. The analysis said what matters to beginners is not how many apps they install, but choosing tools that fit their purpose and adapting quickly to the MacBook environment.