macOS 26 Tahoe — What’s New and How to Update
Apple has released macOS 26 Tahoe (available from September 15, 2025). The update introduces a visual overhaul and productivity-focused improvements that tighten integration with iPhone and iPad.
Highlights
- Liquid Glass design: New transparent elements, refractive sidebars, customizable light/dark/tinted/clear app icons and widgets.
- Spotlight: Major update — clipboard manager, automation actions (send emails/texts, file conversions) and richer search results.
- Finder & Desktop: Refreshed look with tinted icons, folder customization and support for desktop widgets.
- Phone app on Mac: Native Phone app mirrors iPhone features (Recents, Contacts, Voicemail, Call Screening, Hold Assist).
- Continuity: Live Activities from iPhone on Mac, tighter iPhone/iPad sync for workflows and shared features.
- New apps: Journal and Games apps added; Messages gains live translation and polls.
Compatibility
macOS 26 focuses on Apple Silicon but still supports many recent Intel models. Common supported families include:
- MacBook Air — Apple silicon (2020 and later)
- MacBook Pro — Apple silicon (2020 and later) and select 2019/2020 Intel models
- iMac, Mac mini — 2020 and later
- Mac Studio — 2022 and later
- Mac Pro — 2019 and later
Availability & Regional Notes
macOS 26 Tahoe was released on September 15, 2025. Install via System Settings (System Preferences) → Software Update on a compatible Mac. Some features tied to services or local regulations may not be available in all regions — check feature availability for your country.
Links & Further Reading
- Official Apple newsroom: macOS Tahoe on Apple Newsroom
- macOS page: apple.com/os/macos
- Coverage and analysis: Tom’s Guide overview
How to Update
- Open System Settings (or System Preferences) → Software Update.
- Confirm your Mac is compatible and back up important data (Time Machine or other methods).
- Download and install; your Mac may restart several times.
Will you update today? Share your first impressions in the comments below.