Apple has just rolled out the first public beta of macOS Tahoe (macOS 26), letting everyday users test Apple’s next-generation desktop experience well before the full release this fall. This build mirrors the developer beta 4 that landed earlier in July, giving public beta testers the same feature set and design preview.
The standout change in macOS Tahoe is Apple’s Liquid Glass design, which now spans every corner of the interface—from menu bar and Control Center to app icons, folders, Dock, and widgets. Menus and navigation elements embrace translucency, light refraction, and rounded corners, giving the OS a visually cohesive look in line with iOS 26.
Under the hood, Apple has dramatically reworked Spotlight, transforming it into a mini command hub capable of executing tasks like sending emails, launching apps, or running shortcuts—all without opening a separate app. Developers and power users will also notice a brand-new Games app, complete with a Game Overlay that lets you chat, tweak settings, or invite friends without quitting a title.
Tahoe brings two iPhone-first apps—the Phone and Journal apps—to the Mac for the first time. The Phone app works through Wi‑Fi calling and includes features like call screening and Hold Assist for smarter call handling. Meanwhile, developers gain access to Metal 4, unlocking smoother graphics, modern rendering techniques, and future-proof performance.
You can check out the full list of macOS Tahoe features in our linked article.
People with macOS 26 compatible devices interested in trying out the public beta can jump in by signing up for Apple’s Beta Software Program, then heading to System Settings → Software Update to grab the macOS Tahoe beta. As with any beta, expect occasional bugs or performance quirks, but also a first-hand look at Apple’s boldest desktop redesign in years.
Overall, macOS Tahoe feels like a cohesive leap forward—melding striking visuals with powerful toolsets and new Mac-first apps. If Apple nails the execution between now and the final release, this could redefine what users expect from their next macOS upgrade.