MacOS 26 Tahoe is coming soon. Apple’s latest Mac operating system features a naming convention based on the year. Yet, it’s more than just a title – the OS presents functionalities that align it more with Apple’s other operating systems and improve its overall usefulness.
These enhancements result in an operating system that signals a considerable transformation for macOS in recent times. While some modifications necessitate adaptation, the majority are truly advantageous. So, what’s new in macOS 26? I have been investigating the MacOS 26 Tahoe beta to discover.
New Visual Style
MacOS 26 embraces the Liquid Design concept, giving the software a translucent aesthetic. However, Liquid Glass on MacOS has some distinctions from other Apple platforms. It can be seen in features like Spotlight, menus, and the dock, as well as in sections such as Control Center, paralleling iOS and iPadOS. Buttons also manifest in layered sections.
Further design modifications in MacOS 26 consist of more rounded window edges and layered designs for application side panels like Finder. This offers the OS a modern appearance, and while it may not appeal to everyone, users adapt quickly to the design.
Improved Spotlight
Spotlight in MacOS has undergone a major improvement. Apple’s goal was to amplify its capabilities, and now the universal search bar for Mac is even more extensive.
Spotlight is now capable of searching the entire operating system, including files, folders, applications, and messages. It also takes the place of the App Library in MacOS, with the app launcher grid eliminated. An icon for the app list remains in the dock, but it now directs to Spotlight.
Spotlight gains functionalities that substitute some third-party applications, enabling filtered searches, searches in specific areas, and app actions similar to those in Siri Shortcuts. This allows you to manage app settings without launching them. Familiarizing yourself with these capabilities makes Spotlight more robust. I depend on Spotlight for locating apps, files, and more, and I’ve begun utilizing it for app actions with this enhancement. It’s a feature that can be as sophisticated as you desire. If you choose not to use it, Spotlight continues to work as it did before.
Phone Application for Mac
Making phone calls via Continuity has been challenging, but MacOS 26 changes that landscape. The new phone application resembles the iPhone’s Phone app, but with added functionalities. You can call favorite contacts, dial numbers, and search through contacts without needing to open FaceTime. It’s great for individuals who prefer not to use their phone for calls while using their Mac.
Live Activities
Live Activities, formerly exclusive to iPhone, are now available on your Mac. You will encounter them in the menu bar, enabling you to monitor sports results, Uber status, and more. The information is sourced from your connected iPhone and resembles Live Activities in the Dynamic Island on iOS. Clicking on a Live Activity in the menu bar displays more details, just like in the Dynamic Island.
AI-Enhanced Shortcuts
Apple Shortcuts, favored by tech fans for automating tasks, becomes more potent in MacOS 26 through AI integration. Siri Shortcuts now utilize Apple Intelligence for tasks such as summarizing text and providing a morning briefing with weather updates and calendar events. This capability opens up opportunities for those who enjoy experimenting, as Apple Intelligence can serve as a step within a Shortcut. I frequently use Shortcuts, and integrating an LLM into a Shortcut flow boosts its effectiveness.
Games Application
Apple is broadening its gaming initiatives with a new Games app across its key operating systems. The Games app acts as a launcher for games you’ve been engaging with and proposes new games based on your gaming history. With an increase in AAA games being ported to Apple devices, this app could prove valuable, particularly if developers take advantage of the graphics capabilities of Apple Silicone.
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