Hands-On Apple 186: macOS Tahoe 26

Release Date: June 12, 2025
Host: Micah Sargent
Podcast: All TWiT.tv Shows (Audio) by TWiT

Introduction

In the inaugural episode of the newly renamed Hands-On Apple, hosted by Micah Sargent, listeners are treated to an in-depth preview of macOS Tahoe 26. This episode marks a significant shift from the previous "Hands on Mac" title, reflecting a broader focus on the entire Apple ecosystem.

Redesign and Visual Overhaul

Micah begins by highlighting the redesign elements introduced in macOS Tahoe 26. He notes a more streamlined and modern aesthetic:

• Menu Bar Transformation: The traditional menu bar has been revamped, offering a cleaner look that aligns with the overall visual enhancements of the system.

• Finder Updates: The Finder interface has undergone subtle changes, making navigation more intuitive for users.

• Trash Can Redesign: Even the familiar trash can icon has been refreshed, contributing to the cohesive new design language.

• Cursor Modification: A redesigned cursor adds to the fresh look and feel of the updated OS.

Quote:
"Finder looks a little different, and we can also see that the recycling bin or the trash can as it is on Mac OS is a little bit redesigned."
— Micah Sargent [03:15]

Widget Enhancements

Micah demonstrates the new widget functionality, emphasizing their customization and aesthetic appeal:

• Adding Widgets: Users can easily add widgets such as a digital clock, Apple News, and Tips directly onto the desktop.

• Customization: Widgets feature rounded corners and can be resized or edited to display different topics, enhancing both functionality and personalization.

Quote:
"The rounded corners are a little bit different and we can of course edit these widgets as needed to make adjustments to them by changing the topic, for example, or for changing the size of them."
— Micah Sargent [04:05]

System Settings and Appearance

A significant update in Tahoe 26 is the overhaul of the System Settings interface:

• Glass Effect: The background adopts a glassy, translucent appearance, adding depth to the settings menu.

• Appearance Options: Users can switch between Auto, Light, and Dark modes, with additional theme color selections such as multicolor or specific hues like green.

• Icon and Widget Styles: New styles include dark icons, clear icons, and tinted icons, which can automatically adjust based on the time of day.

• Folder Color Customization: Folders can now be color-coded, allowing for better organization and visual distinction.

Quote:
"Here in the system settings, you can see that they kind of went glassy in the background, which is quite nice."
— Micah Sargent [04:45]

Integration of Phone App on macOS

One of the standout features in Tahoe 26 is the integration of the Phone app into macOS:

• Enhanced Call Functionality: Beyond just FaceTime, users can make and receive calls directly from their Mac.

• Wi-Fi Calling and Notifications: Features like Wi-Fi calling are accessible, and notifications for calls are seamlessly integrated.

Quote:
"The inclusion of the phone app on macOS now gives you more access to taking and placing calls."
— Micah Sargent [06:03]

Spotlight Search Improvements

Spotlight Search receives significant enhancements, making it a more powerful tool:

• Quick Actions: Users can perform actions like sending messages by typing shortcuts (e.g., "sm" for Messages).

• Advanced Search Capabilities: Spotlight now supports searches across applications, files, shortcuts, and even clipboard history.

• Apple Intelligence Integration: Leveraging Apple Intelligence, Spotlight can suggest intelligent actions such as playing a playlist or organizing split screens with apps like Notes and Keynote.

Quote:
"Spotlight Search becomes a lot more powerful, allowing for intelligent suggestions and streamlined workflows."
— Micah Sargent [07:30]

Control Center Updates

The Control Center in macOS Tahoe 26 has been redesigned for better usability:

• New Slider Designs: Adjusting settings like brightness now features updated sliders that are more glossy and rounded.

• Enhanced Accessibility: Quick access to settings like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allows for faster adjustments.

Quote:
"The Control Center is pretty much the same, it just gets a new design with softer and more rounded sliders."
— Micah Sargent [08:15]

Safari and Content-Focused Enhancements

Safari receives updates that prioritize content visibility:

• Full-Screen Web Pages: Websites now take up the entire screen, minimizing distractions.

• Dynamic Top Bar: The top bar adapts its color based on the webpage, creating a more immersive browsing experience.

Quote:
"In Safari, being able to go to a web page and scroll through and have it take up the entirety of the screen is quite delightful."
— Micah Sargent [09:00]

Live Activities and Cross-Device Integration

macOS Tahoe 26 introduces features that enhance the synergy between Apple devices:

• Live Activities on Mac: Apps like Uber and Instacart can display live updates directly on the Mac.

• Hold Assist: Users can be notified when they are no longer on hold during phone calls, improving call management.

Quote:
"If you use your Mac with your iPhone, live activities will appear on the Mac, allowing you to stay updated seamlessly."
— Micah Sargent [10:20]

Parental Controls, Journal, and Games App

• New Parental Controls: Enhanced settings provide better oversight and management of content for younger users.

• Journal Application: The Journal app makes its debut on Mac, offering users a dedicated space for personal writing and reflection.

• Games App: A newly designed Games app allows users to access and continue playing their favorite games, integrate with Apple Arcade, and connect with friends for multiplayer experiences.

Quote:
"The Journal application has come to the Mac, which is fantastic, and the new Games app lets you easily access and play games with friends."
— Micah Sargent [12:10]

Conclusion and Future Insights

Micah wraps up the episode by emphasizing that this overview is just the tip of the iceberg. As public betas become available, a more comprehensive exploration of macOS Tahoe 26's features and capabilities will unfold. He expresses anticipation for delving deeper into the system's functionalities in future episodes.

Quote:
"We will get a much more detailed look as the public betas begin to ship and more people are able to take advantage and use the system."
— Micah Sargent [13:50]

Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with Micah thanking listeners and encouraging them to stay tuned for upcoming discussions and analyses of Apple's latest innovations.

Note: This summary omits promotional segments and advertisements to focus solely on the substantive content discussed in the episode.