macOS Tahoe: How to install Apple’s latest OS on Mac devices, new features, and more
The new macOS Tahoe operating system update introduces a host of thoughtful enhancements, including a refined design, smarter features powered by Apple Intelligence, and deeper connectivity with the iPhone.
The Phone application on Mac has also been improved, offering better access to Recents, Favourites, and voicemails, along with more robust call management features. (Image: Apple)
The new macOS Tahoe operating system update introduces a host of thoughtful enhancements, including a refined design, smarter features powered by Apple Intelligence, and deeper connectivity with the iPhone.
Following its announcement at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June, Apple has officially released macOS Tahoe for all compatible devices. This new operating system update introduces a host of thoughtful enhancements, including a refined design, smarter features powered by Apple Intelligence, and deeper connectivity with the iPhone. Whether you are creating documents, moving between devices, or simply want a more polished interface, this update offers significant improvements.
‘Liquid glass’
macOS Tahoe introduces a new “liquid glass” design language that brings a fresh look to the user interface. This aesthetic is applied across the system with transparent menu bars, mist-coloured overlays, and new colour options for icons and folders. These changes are designed to reduce visual strain and create a more pleasant user experience.
You can now personalise your Mac further with new color choices for app icons and folders.
Folders can be tagged with emojis or symbols for better organisation.
The update includes new themed wallpapers that complement the “liquid glass” design.
Users can now adjust the layout of controls within the Control Center for quicker access to their most frequently used settings.
Smarter and faster workflows
Spotlight search has become more intelligent, now serving as a quick action hub. This allows you to perform tasks like sending an email or creating a calendar event directly from the search bar without launching the full application. The Shortcuts app also sees tighter integration with on-device Apple Intelligence, enabling more intuitive automation of your repetitive tasks.
Live translation for text and audio is now available, helping to reduce language barriers. Creative tools like Genmoji and Image Playground allow for new forms of personal expression. Enhanced file and application previews are now visible directly within Spotlight search results.
Mac-iPhone
The update strengthens the unified Apple ecosystem by improving how your Mac and iPhone work together. Live Activities from your iPhone, such as flight tracking, delivery updates, or timers, can now appear in your Mac’s menu bar. This keeps important information visible at a glance without needing to switch devices. The Phone application on Mac has also been improved, offering better access to Recents, Favourites, and voicemails, along with more robust call management features.
Locate the Apple menu button on the desktop at the top corner of the screen.
Go to System Settings and click on General.
A Software Update menu should pop up in the window, and the device will automatically look for pending updates.
Click on Update Now once macOS Tahoe appears.
Enter your admin password to begin the installation process—do not close the lid of the MacBook or let your Mac computer go to sleep during this process.
Before installing a major OS update, it is always recommended to back up your data with Time Machine or an external drive.. Some features, like Apple Intelligence and advanced iPhone continuity, may require more recent Mac hardware. Older devices may not support all of the new aesthetic effects and could experience more modest performance gains. The availability of certain features may also vary by region and language as they are rolled out over time.
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