Apple's developer conference, WWDC, begins on June 9, 2025. There, Apple will unveil the next major update to macOS. The system will likely be called macOS 26. The official name could be "macOS Tahoe." This continues Apple's tradition of naming macOS versions after locations in California.
Many rumors are currently circulating in the Apple world about the upcoming macOS update. Only the announcement date has been confirmed so far. Much indicates that macOS 26 will bring a comprehensive design update. Internally, the project is codenamed "Solarium." It is expected to include not only new features but also a revised appearance, based on the visionOS interface. Furthermore, Apple is expected to complete the standardization of its operating system versions with macOS 26—the new system will then have a number corresponding to the year.
Naming and background
The switch to "macOS 26" would mean that all Apple operating systems would have a uniform name in the future. The number represents the year following the release. This provides more clarity and is especially helpful for developers and companies. The name "Tahoe" is currently unconfirmed, but fits with the existing naming convention. For twelve years, Apple has named macOS versions after regions in California—before that, they were named after big cats.
Design: “Solarium” brings a new user interface
The most noticeable change in macOS 26 is likely the new user interface. Codenamed "Solarium," Apple is working on a visually redesigned interface. There are no official details yet, but various sources indicate that the new design will be based on visionOS. The goal isn't to make macOS look completely like visionOS, but rather to adopt individual design elements. Window designs, transparencies, and animations could appear more modern. Apple always emphasizes functionality in design changes. It's therefore safe to assume that the new interface will not only look different but also improve usability.
Touchscreen Macs are being discussed
Another persistent rumor: Is a MacBook with a touchscreen coming? The visual redesign could be an indication that Apple is preparing its operating system for touch inputs. Whether such a device will appear as early as 2025 is unclear, however. While WWDC is a developer conference, Apple sometimes uses it for hardware announcements. It's more likely that a touchscreen MacBook won't be introduced until later in the year.
Siri and Apple Intelligence
Apple Intelligence, Apple's AI initiative, was introduced in 2024. Siri is scheduled to receive a major update in macOS 26. The improvements could bring more powerful replies, better context recognition, and possibly a chatbot in the style of ChatGPT. However, according to current rumors, full chatbot integration is not expected at WWDC. This feature may not arrive until 2026.
- What seems certain, however, is that Apple will once again place greater emphasis on Siri with macOS 26. The past few years have seen little development, and criticism of its performance and accuracy is palpable.
New accessibility features
Apple has already announced several new accessibility features that will also be included in macOS 26. These include:
- a magnifying glass that works with an external camera
- an accessibility reader with customizable fonts, colors, and spacing
- the ability to open BRF files (Braille Ready Format)
- a launcher function for opening apps via Braille access
- Accessibility Nutrition Labels in the App Store that show which accessibility features an app offers before downloading
These features were introduced in May 2025 and are firmly planned for the next operating system update.
Apple Intelligence and Google Gemini
Currently, Apple Intelligence only supports ChatGPT. There are indications that Google Gemini will soon be integrated as a second AI service. This could also apply to macOS 26, although it remains to be seen whether this feature will be available at launch or later.
Intelligent battery functions
One possible innovation concerns energy management. A feature is in the works for iPhones that detects when you need to leave early and adjusts charging behavior accordingly. This feature could also appear on MacBooks, particularly the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air. The goal is to improve battery health through smarter charging.
Gaming and smart home integration
Apple recently acquired the studio behind the game "Sneaky Sasquatch." Apple is expected to unveil a new gaming app at WWDC 2025. The goal is to position Macs more strongly as a gaming platform—complementing Apple Arcade. A new system called "homeOS" could be announced for the smart home. If true, it will likely run on iPhones, iPads, and a new Home device—possibly also in the form of a new Home app for macOS 26.
Compatibility: Which Macs does macOS 26 support?
Not all Macs will get the new system. These models could be excluded:
- MacBook Pro 2018
- Intel MacBook Air 2020
- iMac Pro 2017
- Mac mini 2018
These devices are currently still supported by macOS Sequoia, but are at the lower end of the hardware requirements. It's possible that macOS 26 will exclude the last Intel Macs. This would mark Apple's next step toward a complete transition to Apple Silicon.
Release schedule
macOS 26 will be announced on June 9, 2025. A developer beta will be released shortly thereafter, followed by a public beta a few weeks later. The regular release will take place as usual in September or October. If you're not a developer, you should wait to install it until the final version is released—beta versions are often buggy and not suitable for everyday devices.
macOS 26 heralds a new era
macOS 26 brings some of the biggest changes since macOS Big Sur. A new design, potential touchscreen support, AI features, accessibility, and smart system functions make this update exciting. At the same time, it will likely be the last to support some Intel Macs. If you want to know what your Mac will look and function like in the future, it's worth paying close attention to the WWDC keynote. And if you're looking to buy a new Mac, it might be a good idea to wait until fall. Looking for new accessories? Visit our Amazon Storefront – there you'll find a variety of products from leading manufacturers, including HomeKit and more! (Image: Shutterstock / Shahid Jamil)
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