The Omni Group has released an update to its productivity software, launching **OmniFocus 4.7** with several new features designed to enhance workflow and productivity. This update introduces features such as **Planned Dates** and **mutually exclusive tags**. However, users should note that an optional database migration is required to access some of these new functionalities.
New Features Enhance User Experience
In a blog post detailing the update, the company emphasized its commitment to maintaining backwards compatibility between **OmniFocus 3** and **OmniFocus 4**. While some features necessitate an update to a new database format, the migration is not mandatory. The Omni Group stated, “OmniFocus will only prompt you to migrate if it detects that all syncing copies of OmniFocus are compatible with the newer format.”
Among the most significant additions is the **Planned Dates** feature, which allows users to schedule when they plan to work on specific actions, action groups, or projects. This feature integrates seamlessly with existing Defer Dates and Due Dates, enabling users to set Planned Dates that can be inherited by child tasks. Items assigned to a project can now be displayed in the **Forecast** view, ensuring that any tasks not completed by their Planned Date will remain visible in the “Past” section.
Another notable enhancement is the introduction of **mutually exclusive tags**. This feature allows users to assign various levels of urgency or categorize tasks by time frames, such as high, medium, or low priority. For example, users can create tags for weather-related tasks, like rain or sun, or designate morning, afternoon, and evening categories for better organization. This tagging system, like Planned Dates, also requires the database migration.
Improved Task Management Capabilities
OmniFocus 4.7 introduces additional functionality for project management. Users can now set **repeat limits** for tasks that require regular reminders. This feature will automatically stop notifications once the designated time frame has lapsed. Furthermore, the update includes an **automatic catch-up** option for recurring tasks. When enabled, any missed iterations of a repeating item will be skipped, allowing users to stay on track even after absences.
A feature that does not require a database migration is the enhanced **Forecast screen**. The updated interface now displays summary task indicators in the outline date header and calendar sidebar. These indicators provide a quick overview of pending tasks, improving at-a-glance visibility for users managing their schedules.
While these highlights showcase some of the new capabilities, the release notes for **OmniFocus 4.7** include a comprehensive list of tweaks and improvements across all supported devices, including the **Apple Vision Pro**, **iPhone**, **iPad**, **Apple Watch**, and **Mac**. For users eager to optimize their productivity, the update promises a more streamlined experience.
As productivity software continues to evolve, the enhancements in OmniFocus 4.7 reflect the growing demand for tools that adapt to diverse workflows, providing users with the flexibility and efficiency they need to manage their tasks effectively.
