If you own an iMac or MacBook that has one of Apple’s Fusion drives, then the new APFS (Apple File System) will not be supported in the macOS High Sierra software update. This news was recently confirmed by Apple, and it has significant implications for users who have been eagerly anticipating the new file system’s benefits.
Understanding APFS and Its Benefits
APFS, or Apple File System, is a modern file system introduced by Apple to replace the older HFS+ system. APFS is designed to be more efficient and reliable, offering several advantages over HFS+. These benefits include improved performance, enhanced security features, and better support for solid-state drives (SSDs). For instance, APFS supports cloning of files and directories, which allows for faster and more efficient copying. It also includes strong encryption, space sharing, and snapshots, which can be incredibly useful for data recovery and backup.
However, despite these advantages, APFS is not yet compatible with Fusion Drives in the initial release of macOS High Sierra. Fusion Drives, which combine a traditional hard drive with a smaller SSD to provide a balance of storage capacity and speed, will continue to use the older HFS+ file system for the time being.
Steps for Public Beta Testers
If you have been a Public Beta tester of the macOS High Sierra software and have a Fusion Drive, you will need to convert your drive back to HFS+. This process involves several steps and can be somewhat technical. Detailed instructions on how to perform this conversion can be found [here](https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208018). It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to avoid data loss or other issues.
For those who are simply upgrading to the new macOS High Sierra, the process is more straightforward. Any flash drives will automatically be converted to the new APFS, while other drives, including hard drives and Fusion Drives, will remain on HFS+. This means that users with standard hard drives or Fusion Drives do not need to take any additional steps during the upgrade process.
Future Support for Fusion Drives
Apple has indicated that APFS support for Fusion Drives is not available “in the initial release of macOS High Sierra.” This suggests that the company may add support for Fusion Drives in a future update. While no specific timeline has been provided, it is likely that Apple is working on ensuring that APFS can be implemented on Fusion Drives without compromising performance or reliability.
The new macOS High Sierra is set to be released next week on the 24th of September. This update brings a host of new features and improvements, including enhancements to the Photos app, Safari, and the introduction of Metal 2, which provides better graphics performance and support for VR content creation.
In conclusion, while the lack of APFS support for Fusion Drives in the initial release of macOS High Sierra may be disappointing for some users, the overall benefits of the new file system and the other improvements in the update make it a worthwhile upgrade. Users with Fusion Drives can look forward to potential future updates that may bring APFS support, allowing them to take full advantage of the new file system’s capabilities.
Source: [MacRumors](https://www.macrumors.com)
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
