macOS Tahoe 26 represents a significant overhaul by Apple, introducing a new Liquid Glass design, enhanced smart Continuity features, and an improved user experience.
macOS Tahoe 26: Apple unveiled macOS Tahoe 26, the latest version of its desktop operating system, at WWDC 2025. This update is considered one of the most substantial visual and functional upgrades to macOS to date. The company introduced a new design language called 'Liquid Glass,' promising a visually appealing and interactive experience for Mac users. Simultaneously, Apple has made its Continuity features even more powerful.
Liquid Glass Design: Redefining Transparency in the Interface
One of the most striking features of macOS 26 is its new design language, dubbed Liquid Glass. It provides a transparent, reflective experience akin to physical glass. This effect is visible in many parts of the Mac's UI:
- Toolbars and sidebars now display with real-time reflections.
- The menu bar is fully transparent, blending seamlessly with the screen's content.
- Users can now change folder colors and personalize them with custom emojis or symbols.
- This design works consistently across both light and dark modes, providing a uniform experience.
This new interface is not only aesthetically pleasing but also makes the Mac's user interface more modern and responsive.
Enhanced Continuity: Direct Calls and Live Updates on Mac
Apple's 'Continuity' feature already fostered b integration between Mac and iPhone, but macOS Tahoe 26 takes it a step further.
Phone App on Mac:
- A new Phone app is included on the Mac.
- It allows users to relay calls from their iPhone.
- Calls, voicemail, favorites, and call screening are directly accessible from the Mac.
- Features like call holding and hold assist are also included.
Live Activities Support:
- iPhone Live Activities will now appear in the Mac's menu bar.
- The status of a tracking app, food delivery, or taxi service can now be tracked from the Mac.
- Users can perform the same action via iPhone mirroring by clicking on the Mac.
Spotlight Revitalized: Smarter, More Powerful
macOS 26 features a completely redesigned Spotlight. It functions not just as a search tool but as an AI-powered personal assistant.
- Spotlight now supports hundreds of new actions, such as launching apps, changing device settings, and sending emails.
- It can now access iPhone apps if the device is connected via iPhone mirroring.
- Search results are auto-ranked by relevance, prioritizing the most useful information.
- Users can now directly access files from third-party cloud drives like Google Drive or Dropbox through Spotlight.
macOS Tahoe 26 Device Compatibility
Apple has clarified that macOS 26 will only be available on Macs launched in 2020 or later. The complete list is as follows:
- MacBook Pro (2019 and later models)
- MacBook Air (models with Apple Silicon chip)
- iMac (2020 and later models)
- Mac mini (2020 and later)
- Mac Studio (2022 and later)
- Mac Pro (2019 and later models)
The macOS 26 developer beta is currently available, and the public version will be rolled out as an OTA (Over-The-Air) update by the end of the year.
