A fresh iteration of macOS, identified as macOS 26 or Tahoe, is slated for launch later this year. Apple unveiled this newest version of its laptop operating system during WWDC, emphasizing the revamped design features. Anticipate the new OS on your MacBook this autumn.
### A brand new appearance for the upcoming macOS
Referred to as macOS Tahoe, it presents a more transparent design language called Liquid Glass, akin to iOS 26. The dock at the lower section of the screen is now see-through, and the menu bar at the upper section is no longer visible, enhancing the sense of space on the display. Users can modify which controls are shown at the upper right when the controls menu is active, and third-party applications like Zoom can integrate controls into that menu.
Liquid Glass represents a novel design approach for Apple, enabling customization options while preserving the iconic Apple aesthetic. Images from the Apple Newsroom during WWDC 2025 highlight the design and personalization features available with Liquid Glass. This transformation is not limited to macOS 26 and Tahoe but extends to iPadOS and iOS 26 as well. The new transparent settings are anticipated to gain popularity.
Per the official press release announcing Tahoe, there are increased customization options for the controls in the menu bar and Control Center. The updated design fosters greater personalization on the Mac, featuring app icons available in light or dark modes, vibrant new colors, and an elegant transparent appearance. Users can adjust folder hues and incorporate symbols or emojis for a distinctive identity.
### Enhanced connectivity with other Apple gadgets
A notable enhancement relates to Continuity, which links iPhones with Macs for shared functionality. The Phone app is being introduced on Mac, facilitating regular phone calls alongside FaceTime. Live Activities, similar to the widget on an iPhone lock screen for delivery notifications, are also making their way to Mac.
### Modifications to Spotlight Search
Spotlight Search, activated by pressing CMD+space, has undergone a significant transformation. Search outcomes, encompassing folders, files, messages, or applications, are organized on a single screen based on relevance. Users can streamline searches, such as filtering to display only PDFs.
Spotlight can now serve as a launchpad for actions. For instance, entering a shortcut into Spotlight can send an email directly without needing to open the Mail app, adding convenience.
### A new Games application
Apple’s newly introduced Games app for iOS 26 is also accessible on macOS 26. It consolidates all Mac games into a single interface, featuring a control center widget for messaging friends or tweaking settings while gaming.
### Further details about macOS Tahoe 26
Additional updates across Apple’s software ecosystem, such as live translation in calls and background images in the Messages app, are also being integrated into macOS Tahoe.
Apple indicates that macOS Tahoe will be released this autumn. “macOS is the heart and soul of the Mac, and with Tahoe, we’re building on what users cherish the most. Whether you’re a power user or just beginning your journey with Mac, there’s something for everyone, with even more features to enhance productivity and streamline tasks across Mac and iPhone like never before,” remarked Apple SVP of Software Engineering Craig Federighi in a press release. “With its stunning new design, exceptional Continuity experiences, robust enhancements to Spotlight, smarter shortcuts, and updates to Apple Intelligence, the Mac experience has reached new heights.”