macos

System Time, Clocks and Their Syncing in macOS

Mac timekeeping relies on accurate system clocks. To ensure synchronization, Macs should connect to Apple's Time Server automatically via the Date & Time settings, allowing for auto timezone adjustments through Location Services. Issues can arise if Location Services are not enabled, especially in Virtual Machines. Accurate time is crucial for file timestamps and security; misalignment can cause problems, particularly when using VPNs. Since macOS 10.13, synchronization is managed by a service called timed, and users can also use the sntp command for manual adjustments. It's generally better for clocks to be slightly slow rather than backdating, which can disrupt time order and processing.

https://eclecticlight.co/2025/05/21/system-time-clocks-and-their-syncing-in-macos/

macOS: Share a Link That Jumps to a Specific Line on a Webpage

Share specific webpage passages using Safari's “Copy Link with Highlight” feature, available in Safari 18 on macOS Sequoia+. Highlight text, right-click, and select the option to generate a link that directs others to that highlighted section. This feature, similar to Google's Scroll to Text Fragment, simplifies sharing targeted content, though it may be inconsistent on iOS.

https://www.macrumors.com/how-to/macos-share-weblink-jumps-to-specific-line/

How Time Machine Backups Can Fail Silently

Time Machine backups can fail without user knowledge, illustrating the dangers of “set it and forget it.” A user experienced this with an external SSD becoming inaccessible due to new security software. Time Machine continued to operate without backups for hours without warning. Unlike other backup tools, Time Machine does not clearly alert users to errors, highlighting the need for regular monitoring of backup status.

https://eclecticlight.co/2026/01/15/how-time-machine-backups-can-fail-silently/

TIL: Apple Broke Time Machine Again On Tahoe

TLDR: Apple broke Time Machine backups on Tahoe machines using Synology NAS due to unexpected SMB settings changes. The issue was discovered after two months of silent failures. Possible fixes involve editing the nsmb.conf file on macOS and adjusting Synology SMB settings. The author plans to switch to a Docker-based Time Machine solution for better control and addresses other Apple-related frustrations.

https://taoofmac.com/space/til/2026/02/01/1630

Relinq

Relinq is a Mac app for converting music links between platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music. It offers automatic clipboard detection, supports various conversion modes, and prioritizes user privacy. Users can start with 5 free conversions, then pay $5 for lifetime access to unlimited conversions. Relinq requires macOS 14.4 or later and supports bi-directional link conversions across all major music services.

https://relinq.app/

TinkerTool: Description

TinkerTool is a free macOS application that unlocks hidden preference settings, allowing users to customize their system without admin privileges. It operates safely without altering the OS integrity, ensuring all changes can be reset. The tool is compatible with all macOS versions and available in multiple languages. Current version: 11.4.

https://www.bresink.com/osx/TinkerTool.html

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