Apple Introduces macOS Tahoe 26 at WWDC 2025
At WWDC 2025, Apple rolled out macOS Tahoe 26, the latest version of its flagship desktop operating system. This update showcases an eye-catching visual design, improved Continuity tools for seamless connectivity between Mac and iPhone, a groundbreaking update to Spotlight, and greater integration with Apple Intelligence, Apple’s privacy-focused AI framework.
Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering, highlighted that macOS is fundamental to the Mac experience. With Tahoe, users’ preferences are at the forefront, providing features that enhance productivity and improve interaction across Mac and iPhone.
A Fresh macOS Design with Liquid Glass Aesthetic
At the core of this update is the innovative “Liquid Glass” design. Apple has transformed the visual layers of macOS using translucent materials that mirror surrounding colours and light. Enhancements have been made to the Dock, sidebars, toolbars, and menu bar to create a more engaging workspace. The menu bar features complete transparency, and application icons can shift between light and dark modes, offering users more options for personalisation. Additionally, folders can now be colour-coded and embellished with custom symbols or emojis.
Closer Integration of iPhone and Mac
The new macOS integrates a native Phone app, allowing users to check call logs, listen to voicemails, and manage calls directly from their desktops. Features like Call Screening enable real-time filtering of unknown calls, while Hold Assist lets users await customer support without needing to stay on the line.
Live Activities from the iPhone, such as flight updates or ride-sharing notifications, can now be displayed in the Mac’s menu bar. Engaging with a live activity initiates iPhone Mirroring, facilitating instant actions without the need to pick up the phone.
Enhanced Spotlight Features
Spotlight, Apple’s built-in search utility, has undergone significant upgrades. It now supports more than a hundred direct actions, including composing emails, starting podcasts, and managing notes without the hassle of opening separate applications. Search results are ranked based on relevance, and improved filtering and browseable views simplify information discovery. Additionally, third-party developers can incorporate their own actions via the App Intents API, while “quick keys” allow users to set up custom command shortcuts for daily tasks.
Intelligent and Private Enhancements
Apple Intelligence enhances system-wide capabilities across Mac, providing privacy-conscious AI tools for everyday tasks. The new Live Translation feature works in Messages, FaceTime, and phone calls, delivering real-time text and audio translation directly on devices.
Shortcuts have evolved, leveraging Apple Intelligence to automate intricate workflows. This includes summarising text, generating visuals, and incorporating third-party tools like ChatGPT when necessary. For instance, a student could create a shortcut to compare class notes with an audio transcript while ensuring their data remains private.
Creative tools such as Genmoji and Image Playground now offer more detailed editing options, enabling users to customise generated emojis and images by adjusting personal traits and choosing specific styles.
Gaming and Media Advancements
macOS Tahoe introduces the Apple Games app, serving as a new hub for discovering and managing games. A floating Game Overlay feature allows players to chat with friends, adjust settings, or activate Low Power Mode during gameplay. On the development side, new technology within Metal 4, Apple’s latest graphics engine, includes features like MetalFX Frame Interpolation and Denoising for enhanced performance and clearer visuals.
Upcoming titles like Cyberpunk 2077, Crimson Desert, and InZOI are expected to utilise these advanced technologies for an enhanced gaming experience on Mac. Future releases, such as Lies of P: Overture and HITMAN World of Assassination, will also benefit from this upgrade.
Additional Features and Improvements
Safari has received a design refresh featuring floating tabs and an updated sidebar. Apple claims the browser is now 50 percent faster than Chrome when accessing frequently visited websites and provides up to four additional hours of battery life during video playback. Messages now supports polls, custom backgrounds, and enhanced group typing indicators, while smarter search functionalities have also been added. Photos introduces pinned collections, filtering tools, and adjustable tile sizes, while Journal makes its debut on Mac for reflective writing.
The FaceTime app features a new layout with contact posters and floating controls, while Notes includes support for markdown import/export and phone call transcriptions. Improvements to accessibility include a new Magnifier, image filters for reading and presentations, and a dedicated Braille Access interface. For users experiencing motion sickness, a new Vehicle Motion Cues option aims to minimise discomfort when travelling.
Availability of macOS Tahoe 26
macOS Tahoe 26 is now accessible in a developer preview, with a public beta release scheduled for next month. The official launch is planned for autumn 2025 as a free update. Certain features, particularly those associated with Apple Intelligence, will require compatible devices, including iPhone 16 models, M1 Macs and later, as well as supported languages such as English, French, German, and Spanish. More language support is anticipated by the end of the year.
