One of SDMUG's enduring contributions was its curated collection of resources for Mac users — links, recommendations, and guides that helped members find the best information, support, and tools for their Macs. This resource page preserves and updates that tradition.
Official Apple Resources
- Apple Support — Official documentation, troubleshooting guides, and repair options
- Apple Developer — Documentation for developers building Mac and iOS applications
- macOS — Latest features, system requirements, and upgrade information
- Mac Hardware — Current Mac lineup, specifications, and pricing
- Apple Education — Educational resources and programs from Apple
Mac News & Analysis
- MacRumors — Apple news, rumors, and community forums with millions of members
- 9to5Mac — Breaking Apple news, reviews, and how-to guides
- Macworld — Reviews, news, and buying advice from longtime Mac journalists (formerly Macworld Magazine, whose Expo was a fixture in the SDMUG calendar)
- Six Colors — In-depth Apple analysis from veteran journalists
Mac Learning & Community
- Apple Discussions — Official Apple community forums for peer support
- r/mac on Reddit — Active community discussion about Macs, hardware, and macOS
- r/apple on Reddit — Broad Apple community covering all products and platforms
- Apple Support on YouTube — Official video tutorials for Mac features
Software Recommendations
SDMUG members spent years collectively evaluating Mac software. Some standout categories and applications that appeared regularly in newsletter reviews and meeting demonstrations:
Productivity
- Alfred — A powerful Spotlight alternative for launching apps and running workflows
- 1Password — Password management that integrates across all Apple devices
- BetterTouchTool — Customize trackpad gestures, keyboard shortcuts, and window management
Creative Applications
- Pixelmator Pro — Native Mac photo editor and image design tool
- Logic Pro — Apple's professional digital audio workstation (successor to GarageBand for pros)
- Final Cut Pro — Apple's professional video editing platform, a SDMUG SIG topic
Utilities
- iStatMenus — System monitoring in the menu bar
- CleanMyMac — Maintenance and optimization utility
- Carbon Copy Cloner — Disk cloning and backup solution
Finding a Mac User Group Near You
The spirit of SDMUG lives on in Mac user groups around the world. While many groups have moved online, some in-person MUGs still meet regularly. To find a group near you:
- Check Apple Store event calendars — many stores host free Today at Apple learning sessions
- Search Meetup.com for Apple or Mac user groups in your area
- Explore local community college continuing education programs that offer Mac courses
- Check the Computer History Museum for computing community events near you