Today, we are going to discuss all the macOS 26 Tahoe features. Apple is calling their next big macOS 26 update ‘Tahoe’. It is after the beautiful Lake Tahoe in California. The macOS 26 Tahoe update is going to be announced during the WWDC25 on June 9, 2025. That’s just a few days away from the announcements. Lots of exciting features and changes are expected.
This update will bring a fresh new look and more innovative Apple Intelligence features. Overall, it will make using your phone easier. Just like you, I’m also pretty excited about this update.
Let’s check out all the details:
Also Read: iOS 26 Launch Date, Features, Eligible Devices, And More!
Why MacOS 26 Tahoe Strategy?
Let’s check out the strategy with the help of this quick overview table:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| New Naming Strategy | Apple is choosing to name the updates after the year. |
| Release Window | Spanning from September 2025 to September 2026. |
| Applies To | – macOS 26 – iOS 26 – iPadOS 26 – watchOS 26 – tvOS 26 – visionOS 26 |
| Code Name | Tahoe (named after Lake Tahoe, California) |
| Naming Tradition | Continues Apple’s use of California landmarks (e.g., Yosemite, Big Sur, Sequoia) |
| Symbolism of “Tahoe” | Reflects the OS’s striking visuals and redesigned interface |
I liked the name and found it interesting. It is also a favourite vacation spot for many Apple employees. Therefore, it is only natural to keep this name for the new update. The Lake is also a calm and beautiful place, and that’s how the update will be. The macOS 26 Tahoe update is going to have a shiny, glass-like style. Maybe this is something we saw on the VisionOS.
Inspired From VisionOS: Biggest Redesign Ever!
Since the Big Sur that came out in 2020, the macOS Tahoe is going to be the biggest redesign that Apple will be making. Apple is also calling it ‘Solarium’ behind the scenes. This is because it will draw a lot of inspiration from VisionOS. VisionOS was the operating system used on the Apple Vision Pro.
It will have soft-rounded buttons, shiny windows, and a smooth, glass-like feel. It is going to be perfectly suited for the iOS 26 and iPadOS 26. You will see that everything is easy to use and it’s simple yet elegant.
Let’s check out what’s inspired by VisionOS:
- The windows, menus, and icons will have 3D, glass-like look that’s kind of see-through. It’s supposed to make everything feel clearer and modern.
- Buttons and app icons are becoming softer, with rounded edges. It is similar to what we already see in iOS 26.
The entire layout is being updated to make things easier to use. It’s not just about making it pretty; it’s also meant to help everything work better. It is expected that things will feel more connected across Macs, iPhones, iPads, and more.
Some people are wondering if this could mean touchscreen Macs are on the way. That would be interesting, but it is all speculation for now.
Also Read: Apple’s WWDC25 5-Day Event Confirmed: Check All Details!
Top macOS 26 Tahoe Features
Apple Intelligence Features
Apple Intelligence is going to be a big part of the macOS 26 Tahoe. Apple Intelligence was introduced last year’s WWDC24. But, Apple did not show the major features of Apple Intelligence as planned. But this time, nothing can stop them so it’s going to be huge.
The best part is that it’s just not for Macbooks, it’s going to work across iPhones and iPads too. Let’s check out what to expect:
Smarter Siri
One of the things I’m really curious about is Smarter Siri. It’s supposed to get a big upgrade in macOS 26. I know that the full-fledged Chatbot-style Siri won’t be there till 2026. But still, big improvements can be expected.
Redesigned Shortcuts App
The shortcuts App is also getting a new design in the macOS 26. There is going to be Apple Intelligence built in to customise more actions easily. Even a non-tech person would be able to set up helpful automation without much effort. So, there is going to be inclusivity of all sorts of people.
Third-Party AI Integration
Apple plans to let third-party develops use their AI tools. App makers are going to be able to build Mac apps with Apple Intelligence. You would be able to do things like smarter automation, content creation, and even more personalised features. Things are going to level up for developers with this new update.
But, just know that you are not going to get all the features at once. It can take time for Apple to roll out features. For example, the chatbot-style Siri is not going to show up until 2026. So, even if there will be announcements, you would have to wait for all the features to try.
Also Read: 10 iPhone 15 New Features We Bet You Did Not Know!
Connectivity and Productivity Features
macOS 26 Tahoe is also bringing better connectivity and productivity. Let’s check out how:
- Captive Wi-Fi Portal Syncing. If you log into Wi-Fi at a hotel or airport on one Apple device, it’ll connect your other Apple devices too. This way, you don’t have to log in again and again.
- iPhone Mirroring: In the latest update, you’ll be able to control your iPhone right from your Mac. You can run iPhone apps, check notifications, and more.
- Clipboard Integration: One clipboard across Apple devices will allow seamless copying and pasting.
- Dynamic Island: There are speculations about a Mac version of the iPhone’s Dynamic Island. It would give quick access to notifications and app actions.
- Flexible Desktop Widgets: Desktop flexible will be more customisable. It will allow users to adjust their size and placement.
Interesting Gaming Features
Dedicated Gaming App
Big announcement for gamers! Apple is working on a new gaming app for macOS 26 Tahoe. It will be a place to see
- Gaming Achievements
- Track your plays
- Connect with Friends
- Work will Apple Arcade and Steam
Apple is levelling up for gamers! I am super excited to see how gamers around the globe are going to welcome this move.
Also read: What Is RCS Support For iOS And Android? The Latest Messaging Service By Apple!
App-Specific Upgrades
Let’s check out some app specific upgrades:
- Notes App: It will finally let you export your notes in markdown. This is huge for developers and writers who want to show their work across different platforms.
- Messages App: This is also getting some exciting features. It will have the ability to create polls in group chats and automatic translate messages in other languages. It surely is going to make texting easier with people who speak different languages.
- Apple Invites App: This is for people who are susbcribed to the iCloud+. You can now create digital invitations for birthdays or anniversaries. It’s handy to organise and share party plans.
Accessibility Features
Apple focuses on Accesibility big time and that’s something I really appreciate. With macOS 26 Tahoe features, you can see that Macbooks are going to be easier for everyone to use, no matter the abilities. Let’s check out all the accessibility features:
Accessibility Reader
One new feature I’m excited about is Accessibility Reader. It’s a reading mode built right into macOS 26 that helps people who have trouble seeing or reading text. You can change the font, colours, and spacing to make things easier to read. You can use it in any app.
Vehicle Motion Cues
Another smart feature is the Vehicle Motion Cues. It’s meant to help people who get motion sickness when using their devices in a car or on a plane. The Mac will show gentle visual cues that match the movement of the vehicle.
Magnifier with iPhone Integration:
Another helpful feature coming in macOS 26 is an upgrade to the Magnifier. You can connect your iPhone to your Mac and use the iPhone’s camera to zoom in on things.
Personal Voice:
Personal Voice is another useful feature. It’s for people who might be losing their ability to speak. With it, you can record your own voice ahead of time, and then Mac can use that voice in text-to-speech apps.
All of these macOS 26 Tahoe features really show how much Apple cares about accessibility.
Also read: Apple iPhone 16 Vs iPhone 15: Expected Features And Upgrades!
macOS 26 Compatible Devices
One thing to keep in mind is that macOS 26 Tahoe might not work on some older Intel-based Macs anymore. Apple is focusing more on their newer Apple Silicon models. Silicon ensures that macOS 26 can fully use the M-series chips. This is especially for Apple Intelligence features.
Devices That Are Supported
| Device | Supported From |
|---|---|
| iMac | 2019 and later |
| MacBook Pro | 2019 and later |
| Mac Studio | 2022 and later |
| MacBook Air | M1 and later |
| Mac mini | M1 and later |
| Mac Pro | 2023 |
Devices That Are No Longer Supported:
| Device Not Supported | Model Year |
|---|---|
| iMac Pro | 2017 |
| MacBook Pro | 2018 |
| Mac mini | 2018 |
| iMac | 2019 |
| MacBook Air (Intel-based) | 2020 |
macOS 26 Release Timeline
The developer beta for macOS 26 Tahoe will be about 17GB. It is bigger than the first beta for macOS Sequoia. That tells me this update is going to be pretty big and full of new thigns. Apple is expected to follow its traditional release schedule for macOS 26 Tahoe:
| Stage | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| WWDC Keynote | June 9, 2025 | Preview + developer beta release |
| Public Beta | July 2025 | Early access for non-developers |
| Release | Sept/Oct 2025 | Official launch with iOS 26 and new iPhones |
Note: Just know that there are going to be bugs and stability issues for beta version.
Also Read: Xiaomi HyperOS 3.0 Release Date, Eligible Devices, Features!
In A Nutshell
In the end, I can say that the macOS 26 Tahoe is going to be a really big update. It’s getting a fresh new look inspired by visionOS. This update will have Apple Intelligence features, accessibility tools, and a gaming hub. I like that Apple is now naming it after the year. Some features might come later. But with all the redesign, AI, and integration across devices, I think it’s going to be worth the wait.
With WWDC 2025 is just a few days away! Are you excited as well? Let me know in the comment section below. It feels like macOS Tahoe could change the way we use Macs starting next year and beyond.
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