MacFamily Tree 9.0
The Mac’s most polished family history tool gets a major overhaul
$59.99 From Synium Software, syniumsoftware.com needs macOS 10.13 or later, 64–bit processor
Let’s cut to the chase. MacFamilyTree is by far the best family history app currently available for your Mac. It’s packed with all the features you’d expect, from powerful tools for recording your tree to seamless integration with FamilySearch for tracking down ancestors and records. Version 9.0 lifts this must–have genealogy app to new heights.
The user interface has been refreshed and redesigned, with the main navigation sections and tools moved from the top of the program window to the left–hand side. After the initial jarring, it works — everything is pretty much where it was, so no re–learning required here. The submenus are also collapsible, making it easy to reclaim more workspace.
Version 9.0 focuses most of its changes on the program’s publishing tools. These have been rewritten from the ground up: underlying tech improvements result in snappier performance and better rendering of charts and reports. New default themes and templates bring them up to date, and once you’ve worked out where all the existing customization options have been moved to you’ll be able to appreciate further improvements. These include better export options, and new and revamped chart and report editors that support MacFamilyTree’s proud boast that they’re almost infinitely configurable. While the same can’t be said for the program’s book publishing tool, you do at least get more control over fonts and colors.
One other major new feature is another overdue addition: support for recording DNA test results next to individuals in your tree. This is accompanied by a smattering of database improvements, such as support for alternate place names and the ability to manually specify birth order among children with no birth dates. And the CloudSync tool now has no more limits on family tree sizes.
MacFamilyTree is the perfect example of how software should be developed: since version 8 was launched back in 2015, Synium has released five major free updates. Version 9.0 may not debut any major new features, but its significant overhaul of its charting and reporting tools, coupled with user–interface tweaks, make it a compelling pull, both for existing users looking to upgrade and newbies. Pair it with MobileFamilyTree 9.0 and you’ll also be able to sync, view and update your tree from your iPhone and iPad. Is it perfect? Not quite — we’d like integration with more online services like Ancestry for example — but it’s damned near close.
THE BOTTOM LINE. Whether you’re an existing user or getting into family history for the first time, MacFamilyTree 9.0 is a must–have. It’s powerful, easy to navigate, and packed with useful features.