macOS Tahoe 26 Brings New Design, Smarter Search, and Game Features
Apple has officially introduced macOS Tahoe 26, the next-generation update for Mac users, at WWDC 2025. Designed with a sleek “Liquid Glass” aesthetic and packed with powerful new features, macOS Tahoe 26 is Apple’s most advanced desktop operating system yet. From a fully revamped Spotlight search to a new Phone app and Game launcher, users are in for a deeply integrated experience. If you’re wondering what’s new in macOS Tahoe 26, how it works, and whether your device is compatible, here’s everything you need to know.
New Design and Customization in macOS Tahoe 26
Apple’s new Liquid Glass design gives macOS Tahoe 26 a glossy, modern look that spans across the Dock, app icons, toolbars, and widgets. This visual overhaul also introduces personalized themes, allowing users to apply color-matched folders and tinted icons to fit their preferred aesthetic or wallpaper—mirroring customization options found in iOS. With macOS 26, Apple is aligning the version number with the calendar year, so you’ll be seeing this update power your Mac throughout 2026 and beyond.
Smarter Spotlight Search with Built-In Actions
macOS Tahoe 26 isn’t just about looks—it’s also more functional. Spotlight has received its biggest upgrade yet. Now, you can use Spotlight not only to find files or launch apps, but also to take direct actions like sending messages, creating reminders, or running Shortcuts. Spotlight also integrates iPhone apps through mirroring, letting it double as a universal launcher. With ranked results based on relevance and new filtering options, search on Mac just became a productivity powerhouse.
A Dedicated Phone App and Live Activities
With the new Phone app in macOS Tahoe 26, you can take calls directly from your Mac when paired with an iPhone via Continuity. Modeled after the iOS version, it supports Favorites, Voicemail, Call Screening, and Hold Assist. It also brings Live Activities from your iPhone to your Mac’s menu bar, showing updates in real time—perfect for tracking an Uber or delivery without picking up your phone. This deeper ecosystem integration reflects Apple’s push toward seamless cross-device continuity.
New Game Launcher and AI-Powered Features
Gaming on Mac is leveling up with a new Apple Games app in macOS Tahoe 26. It serves as a central hub to catalog and launch games, discover new titles, and connect with friends. A new Game Overlay adds tools for in-game chatting, settings adjustments, and social invites. Developers also get access to Metal 4, Apple’s latest graphics engine with MetalFX frame interpolation and denoising. Alongside these, Apple Intelligence powers live translations, improved Shortcuts, Genmoji, and real-time captions in FaceTime—bringing smarter, AI-driven experiences across macOS.