Apple has released Mac OS X 10.3.8, a free update to Mac OS X v10.3. It is available in two forms. One, the "Combo," updates all operating systems versions released since the original v10.3; the other, called "Delta," is a smaller download for systems running Mac OS X 10.3.7. Both are available on Apples Web site or through Mac OS Xs Software Update feature.
According to documentation supplied by Cupertino, Calif.-based Apple Computer Inc., this update offers improved directory services and file sharing in multiplatform networks; better font management and printing; improved disc burning and recording; updated graphics drivers for faster Open GL rendering; improved Bluetooth and USB 2.0 support; and security fixes included in previous system updates.
The networking changes include fixes for file sharing problems and directory services on Mac, Unix, Windows and wireless networks that use the AFP, NFS, SMB or CIFS protocols.
To read more about file sharing problems in OS X, click here.
In addition, the update offers better support for NTFS-formatted drives and allows network volumes to appear on the desktop and in the sidebar of Mac OS Xs Finder windows.
Version 10.3.8 also includes new versions of Apples Address Book, Safari, Calculator, Disk Utility, QuickTime, Stickies, Mail, Preview, DVD Player and Image Capture applications. All should work better with third-party applications, according to Apples documentation.
The update also addresses issues that arose with the v10.3.7 update. These include occasional delays when launching networked applications such as iChat or Mail; failure of the automatic restart feature after a power failure; a "jumping cursor" problem seen when using a laptops trackpad; and cooling fan management.
The update also addresses slow performance when using the "Full Screen Glow" feature in Blizzards World of WarCraft game; problems with using Apples Active Directory plug-in; and DVD Player compatibility and flicker issues with certain computers.
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