How to Install MacOS 26 Tahoe Right Now

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Apple’s annual WWDC event is here , and with it comes a new macOS beta with a new name and numbering scheme. In fact, there’s a lot new this time around, as Apple has adopted a refreshed look across all of its operating systems. But you don’t have to wait to try it out. The latest version of macOS , macOS 26 Tahoe , is now available as a developer beta. Read on to learn how to get started with Apple’s latest desktop operating system below.

How to Install macOS 26 Tahoe

Before you can try the latest version of macOS, you need to install it. Technically, the full release and even the public beta are still a long way off. But there’s a workaround you can use to get it right now.

Apple usually hands out beta versions of its latest operating systems to developers after the WWDC keynote, and this year is no exception. It used to be that it didn’t mean much to the average user, but now that Apple’s developer accounts are free, you can get a developer beta.

But first, a warning: these betas are early in development, and they can introduce a lot of instability into your computer. Always back up your Mac before installing a beta, especially a developer beta, and be prepared for unexpected hiccups. Honestly, you’re probably better off waiting for a more stable release, but if you can’t help yourself, I understand.

With that said, here’s how to install the macOS 26 Tahoe developer beta on your device right now:

  1. Sign up for the Apple Developer Program here . Just click “Start Enrollment,” sign in with your Apple ID (this will require two-factor authentication), enter your legal name and address, and wait for approval. You must also be over 18 (or whatever age of majority is required in your region).

  2. Once approved, go to your (backed up!) Mac and go to System Preferences > General > Software Update . Click the i button next to “Beta Updates.”

  3. Select the macOS 26 Developer Beta and click Install. If you don’t see it, make sure you’re signed in with your Apple ID, which you can check at the top of the left column on the System Preferences page.

What to Expect from macOS 26 Tahoe

Now that you’re running the latest version of macOS, you’re probably asking yourself, “Now what?” Well, there’s a lot to explore.

First, the new name. Apple typically names new versions of macOS after famous California landmarks, and this one is named after Lake Tahoe. Simple enough.

The biggest news is the new number: macOS 26. If you’re confused, pay attention. The version of macOS before this was actually macOS 15, so what happened to everything in between? Well, Apple is taking the Windows 95 approach here and is now naming all of its new operating systems by year. While it’s a little confusing, the move makes sense to some extent — it was hard to keep track of old macOS version numbers unless you were a die-hard Apple fan, but now you just need to know the year to check if you’re up to date. There is one confusing note, though — the full version of macOS 26 will likely ship this fall, meaning it’ll technically ship in 2025. Go figure.

What do you think at the moment?

Speaking of relevant, new features: macOS 26 comes with a new look inspired by visionOS that should add some transparency to the user interface for a glassy look. Apple calls it liquid glass . There’s also a new gaming app that replaces Game Center, which is cross-platform and on the Mac is supposed to be able to serve as a launcher even for games you downloaded from outside the App Store.

Notes now also supports Markdown, the Journal app is now on the Mac, and Messages now lets you take polls in your group chats and can automatically translate messages (instead of requiring a long press first). Notably, the Phone app is also here, so you can make calls over Wi-Fi. Plus, Apple Intelligence is getting a number of updates , including a smarter Siri that Apple keeps teasing, though it’s unclear when all of this will finally be ready.

Finally, there are new accessibility features . These include a Mac version of Magnifier, as well as new features for taking notes in Braille, combating motion sickness , and adjusting the font and size of different pieces of text.

Compatibility with macOS 26 Tahoe

Now you’re ready to download the latest macOS beta and start experimenting. But know that you may need to update your device first if it’s a little older. macOS 26 Tahoe is compatible with the following devices:

  • MacBook Air (M1 and later)

  • MacBook Pro (2019 and later)

  • iMac (2020 and later)

  • Mac Mini (2020 and later)

  • Mac Pro (2019 and later)

  • Mac Studio (2022 and later)

More…

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