The latest version of Apple's desktop operating system is called macOS Tahoe (also called macOS 26), which caused heated discussion after the WWDC 2025 opening.
This update brings a refined user interface with a new design, "Liquid Glass", deeper AI integration, and enhancements across core macOS functionalities. However, certain changes are not well-accepted, and there are some macOS 26 bugs, like the missing Launchpad on macOS Tahoe.
As always, Apple continues to blur the line between macOS and other Apple ecosystems(this time especially iOS), aiming for seamless productivity, continuity, and performance.
Download and install macOS Tahoe Beta on your Mac
: Our tech team attended the WWDC conference and had a close experience with macOS Tahoe. Here is our overview.
macOS Tahoe supported devices
Apple continues to optimize for performance on newer silicon. macOS Tahoe supports a wide range of Macs, but this version seems to be the end of the Intel-based Mac models.
Here's a list of devices compatible with macOS 26 Tahoe:
| MacBook Air (M1, 2020) or later |
| MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019) or later |
| MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports) or later |
| MacBook Pro (14-inch, 2021) or later |
| Mac Mini (M1, 2020) or later |
| iMac (2020) or later |
| Mac Studio (2022) or later |
| Mac Pro (2019) or later |
Please share the macOS Tahoe 26 supported devices with others.
macOS Tahoe release date & download
Following its June 10 WWDC 2025 announcement, Apple made the macOS 26 Tahoe developer beta available immediately. While the public version arrived later in July, interested users could gain early access by installing the beta.
Follow these steps to download macOS Tahoe on a Mac:
- Public Beta [July 2025 Onwards]: Enroll via the Apple Beta Software Program. Once enrolled, find the beta in System Settings > Software Update.
- Developer Beta [Available Now]: Registered developers access the beta through the Apple Developer Center or via a restore image.
- Final Release [Late September 2025]: Open System Settings > Software Update. Your compatible Mac will detect macOS Tahoe. Click "Upgrade Now" or "Install Now".
(Or you can choose to download from the App Store or the Apple Support macOS download webpage.)
Note: As with any beta software, early versions may contain bugs. It's recommended to install it on a secondary device or after consulting technical experts.
macOS 26 Tahoe review
Apple describes macOS 26 Tahoe as "Its features make working across Mac and iPhone more seamless than ever before". Here is what stands out:
New Look with Liquid Glass
The new design in macOS 26 enhances the user experience while keeping the familiar feel of the system. Built with Liquid Glass, a translucent material that reacts to its surroundings, it refines elements on the Desktop and introduces a fully transparent menu bar for a more immersive display.
Users gain more customization options for the Apple menu, Control Center, and folders—now with adjustable colors, symbols, and emojis. Combined with dynamic app icons and personalized wallpapers, the design brings greater personalization and style to the Mac.
Spotlight Biggest update
Spotlight in macOS now offers a smarter, faster way to search and get things done. Results are grouped and ranked by relevance, with new filters and support for third-party cloud files. Browse views make it easy to scan apps, files, and clipboard history.
Users can take hundreds of actions directly in Spotlight, like sending emails or running Shortcuts, without switching apps. With support from the App Intents API, both Apple and third-party apps can add actions. Spotlight also introduces "Quick Keys" and learns user habits to suggest personalized, time-saving actions.
Enhanced Continuity experiences
The Phone app now comes to Mac via Continuity, enabling users to make and receive cellular calls from a nearby iPhone. It includes key features like Recents, Favorites, Voicemail, plus new tools like "Call Screening" to filter unknown callers and "Hold Assist" to stay productive while waiting on hold.
Live Activities from iPhone also appear in the Mac's menu bar, showing real-time updates like rides or flights. Clicking them opens iPhone Mirroring for instant interaction right from the Mac.
Other gorgeous functions in macOS Tahoe 26
- Live Translation provides seamless conversations in many apps; Shortcuts becomes smarter during writing, editing images, or creating a personal usage; Big updates in Genmoji and Reminders with advanced Apple Intelligence.
- Apple Games make all activities convenient and enjoyable, like new Game Overlay, Low Power Mode, and Metal 4, enabling next-gen gaming experiences on Mac.
- Safari is faster and more efficient than Chrome, with a redesigned interface and built-in advanced privacy protections.
- Messages adds features like Backgrounds, Polls, and a cleaner details view, plus group typing indicators and smarter search.
- New Journal app lets users capture memories, create multiple journals, and view entries on a map—all synced across Apple devices.
From intelligent features powered by Apple Intelligence to Liquid Glass and advanced gaming support, macOS Tahoe 26 sets a new standard for modern computing. Whether you're a developer, creative, or casual user, this update is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in years.
Share this post to notify others of this new version~