Apple’s macOS has long stood as a gold standard in desktop operating systems, but macOS 26 Tahoe might just be its most ambitious leap forward in years. Unveiled at WWDC 2025, this update brings a dazzling new design, enhanced productivity features, smarter integrations, and the biggest Spotlight upgrade to date.
Here’s a complete breakdown of the top new features in macOS 26 Tahoe, and why this update could redefine how Mac users interact with their devices.
A Stunning New Design: Liquid Glass Aesthetics
At first glance, the most striking update is the introduction of Liquid Glass—a fresh design approach characterized by transparency, light refraction, and a clean, airy aesthetic. The Dock, sidebars, app toolbars, and menu bar have all been refined for more visual coherence.
Users can now:
- Customize folder colors and add emojis or symbols
- Enjoy light and dark tint options for app icons
- Access a more transparent Control Center with more custom settings
It’s all about personalization and expression, while still staying true to the Mac’s intuitive design DNA.
The Biggest Spotlight Update Ever
Spotlight, macOS’s native search and action tool, has received its most powerful upgrade yet. With macOS 26 Tahoe, Spotlight becomes more than just a search bar—it transforms into a command center.
Key improvements:
- Perform system and in-app actions (e.g., send email, play podcast)
- Trigger custom Quick Keys like “sm” to send a message
- Browse clipboard history, apps, files, and even third-party cloud content
- Use App Intents API to trigger app-specific tasks from Spotlight
For power users, Spotlight in macOS 26 Tahoe becomes a productivity powerhouse.
AI-Powered Shortcuts: Automation Gets Smarter
Apple Intelligence, Apple’s privacy-first AI system, now supercharges Shortcuts in macOS 26 Tahoe.
Users can:
- Summarize text or compare notes with audio transcriptions
- Generate custom images and even tap into ChatGPT if needed
- Chain complex actions with system intelligence
- Automate shortcuts based on time, saved files, or external triggers
This makes the Mac not just a tool—but a smart assistant.
Phone App Comes to Mac
Continuity takes a bold leap with the introduction of the Phone app for Mac. You can:
- View Recents, Contacts, and Voicemails
- Use new features like Call Screening and Hold Assist
- Make and take calls via your iPhone seamlessly
Add Live Activities to the mix—where you can see Uber rides, sports scores, or flight updates right in the menu bar—and macOS 26 Tahoe makes real-time syncing between Mac and iPhone feel magical.
A Home for Gamers: Apple Games App & Overlay
Gaming on Mac just got real. macOS 26 Tahoe introduces:
- A dedicated Apple Games app to manage and discover titles
- A Game Overlay to adjust settings, chat, or invite friends mid-game
- Support for AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and more
- Metal 4 for higher-quality graphics and smoother frame rates
This isn’t just a nod to gamers—it’s Apple planting a flag in the PC gaming space.
Smaller Yet Impactful Features
Some more noteworthy features in macOS 26 Tahoe:
- Safari now offers advanced fingerprinting protection by default and faster performance
- The Journal app makes its debut on Mac, synced across devices
- Notes now support audio transcription and markdown imports
- Accessibility improvements include a new Magnifier, Vehicle Motion Cues, and Braille Access
- Enhanced Messages with group typing indicators, backgrounds, and polls
Final Thoughts
macOS 26 Tahoe is a testament to how Apple continues to bridge the gap between sleek aesthetics and powerful functionality. With groundbreaking upgrades to Spotlight, deeper AI integration, better continuity, and a newfound love for gaming, it’s a compelling update for users old and new.
Whether you’re a casual Mac user or a seasoned developer, macOS 26 Tahoe delivers innovation where it matters most.
To explore more updates like the top new features in macOS 26 Tahoe, visit the GeekyFest for the latest in tech, AI, and Apple innovations. Don’t forget to check out our complete recap of WWDC 2025 and all the major announcements to stay informed on everything Apple unveiled this year.
FAQs About macOS 26 Tahoe
Q1: When will macOS 26 Tahoe be released?
The public beta will be available in July 2025, with the full release expected in Fall 2025.
Q2: Is Spotlight only updated visually?
No, the Spotlight upgrade includes functional overhauls, allowing hundreds of quick actions, in-app commands, and personalized routines.
Q3: Will I need an M3 or M4 chip to use these features?
No. Most features in macOS 26 Tahoe will run on Macs as old as the 2020 M1 MacBook Air, although some AI features may benefit from newer Apple Silicon.
Q4: Can I use the new Phone app without cellular on Mac?
Yes. The Phone app relays calls from a nearby iPhone, so cellular capability on Mac isn’t required.
Q5: Is Apple Intelligence the same as ChatGPT?
Apple Intelligence is Apple’s own AI model that runs mostly on-device. It can integrate with ChatGPT optionally for more advanced or broader queries.
