Apple officially unveiled macOS 26 at WWDC 2025—and it’s not just another update. Dubbed macOS 26 Tahoe, this version introduces a brand-new design language, deep iPhone integration, and Apple Intelligence features that elevate your Mac experience in ways never seen before.
Here’s everything you need to know about macOS 26 Tahoe, including why Apple named it that, what’s new, and when you’ll get it.
Why Is It Called macOS 26 Tahoe?
Apple is moving away from version-number naming conventions and shifting to a year-based naming system. Since this version will be widely used in 2026, it’s now macOS 26.
And true to tradition, Apple named the update after a California landmark—Lake Tahoe. So, the official name is macOS 26 Tahoe.
What’s New in macOS 26 Tahoe?
macOS 26 Tahoe is Apple’s most intelligent, personal, and interconnected macOS yet. Here’s what sets it apart:
A Stunning New “Liquid Glass” Design
Apple has reimagined the macOS interface with a modern, immersive design called Liquid Glass, inspired by visionOS.
- Transparent menu bars that blend into the wallpaper
- Color-matched app icons and folders
- Light and dark tint customizations
- Custom emojis and symbols for folders
It’s sleek, fluid, and makes the Mac feel more futuristic.
2. iPhone Calls on Mac with the New Phone App
You can now make and manage iPhone calls right from your Mac:
- Access call history, voicemails, and contacts
- Call Screening to check unknown caller details
- Hold Assist waits on hold for you and alerts when it’s your turn
Your Mac becomes your phone hub—no need to switch devices.
3. Live Activities in the Menu Bar
Live Activities on Mac show real-time updates for apps like Uber, food delivery, or flights right in the menu bar.
Click them to instantly open the corresponding iPhone app via iPhone Mirroring.
4. Spotlight Just Got Smarter
Spotlight in macOS 26 Tahoe evolves into a command center:
- Run shortcuts, send messages, or play music
- Use smart filters and Quick Keys
- Perform tasks without switching apps
This transforms how you interact with your Mac’s search tool.
5. Apple Intelligence Expands on Mac
macOS 26 integrates Apple Intelligence, Apple’s on-device AI layer, to boost personalization while protecting your privacy.
- Live Translations during calls and chats
- Context-aware reminders from emails or notes
- Genmoji and Image Playground for creating custom visuals
- Smarter Shortcuts that learn from your behavior
Whether you’re working, creating, or organizing, AI is now your co-pilot.
6. Apple Games App: A New Era for Mac Gaming
Apple is finally giving Mac gaming its due with the new Apple Games app.
- Launch and manage all games in one place
- New Game Overlay for in-game settings, voice chat, and invites
- Metal 4 support enhances graphics and FPS
- Support for major titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Crimson Desert
Bonus: The app is also available on iPhone and iPad.
7. App Updates: Safari, Messages, Notes, and More
macOS 26 Tahoe brings improvements across the board:
- Safari: Faster, more secure, improved ad tracking protection
- Messages: Polls, group typing indicators, custom chat backgrounds
- Notes: Markdown support and auto-transcription from audio
- FaceTime & Photos: Liquid Glass redesign
- Passwords: Now includes password history and update tracking
- Journal: Finally arrives on Mac
8. Accessibility Upgrades in macOS 26
Apple continues to focus on inclusivity with powerful new accessibility features:
- Magnifier with iPhone camera: Turns your phone into a live zoom lens
- Vehicle Motion Cues: Reduces screen-induced motion sickness
- Accessibility Reader: Offers simplified reading views with custom fonts and colors
- Braille Access: Full system integration with braille devices for navigation and note-taking
Compatibility and Release Schedule
macOS 26 Tahoe will be available for a wide range of Macs—check the full list of supported models here.
Release Timeline:
- Developer Beta: Available Now
- Public Beta: July 2025
- Official Release: Fall 2025
Related: How to Install macOS Tahoe Developer Beta on Your Mac
Final Thoughts
macOS 26 Tahoe isn’t just a visual refresh—it redefines how your Mac fits into your Apple ecosystem. From AI features and cross-device control to enhanced gaming and productivity, this update reflects Apple’s future-forward vision.
If you’re using a Mac daily, macOS 26 will reshape your experience visually, functionally, and intelligently.
Stay tuned—we’ll dive deeper with hands-on insights when the public beta arrives!
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