


macOS 26 Tahoe Revealed: Which Macs Will Run the New OS? Your Ultimate Guide to Supported Devices
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Apple’s WWDC 2025 unveiled macOS 26 Tahoe, a visually stunning operating system set to transform the Mac experience. For Mac users wondering if their device will support this innovative update, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to macOS 26 supported devices.
This article breaks down the compatibility list, offers a brief explainer of macOS 26 Tahoe, and presents an SEO-optimized table with verified details. From MacBook Air to Mac Pro, find out if your Mac is ready for Tahoe’s Liquid Glass design and AI-powered features.
What Is macOS 26 Tahoe? A Brief Explainer
Announced at WWDC 2025, macOS 26 Tahoe introduces a bold “Liquid Glass” design, bringing translucent, customizable interfaces to the Mac. This update aligns with iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26 for a unified Apple ecosystem. Key highlights include:
Liquid Glass Aesthetic: Dynamic, glossy app icons, widgets, and menus with light, dark, or clear modes.
Apple Intelligence: AI-driven tools for productivity, including enhanced Shortcuts and Live Translation.
Spotlight Overhaul: A smarter, action-oriented search that integrates with third-party cloud drives.
Phone App Integration: Answer iPhone calls on your Mac via Continuity, with features like Call Screening.
Gaming Hub: A new app with in-game overlays and Metal 4 graphics enhancements.
Expected to launch in fall 2025, macOS 26 Tahoe will be a free update, but compatibility is limited to specific Mac models. Let’s dive into the details.
Which Macs Are Compatible with macOS 26 Tahoe?
Apple has confirmed that macOS 26 Tahoe supports a range of Macs, primarily those with Apple silicon (M1, M2, M4), alongside select Intel-based models. Below, we detail the macOS 26 supported devices, sourced from Apple’s official announcements and trusted tech outlets like 9to5Mac and Macworld.
MacBook Air
Supported Models: MacBook Air (M1, 2020 and later), MacBook Air (M2, 2022 and later), MacBook Air (M4, 2024 and later).
Details: M-series MacBook Airs are fully compatible, leveraging their efficiency for Tahoe’s AI and graphical demands.
MacBook Pro
Supported Models: MacBook Pro (M1, 2020 and later), MacBook Pro (M2, 2022 and later), MacBook Pro (M4, 2024 and later), MacBook Pro (16-inch, Intel, 2019), MacBook Pro (13-inch, Intel, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports).
Details: Most M-series MacBook Pros are supported, with 2019 16-inch and 2020 13-inch Intel models included due to their T2 Security chip.
iMac
Supported Models: iMac (M1, 2021 and later), iMac (M4, 2024 and later), iMac (Intel, 2020).
Details: The 2020 Intel iMac joins M-series models, ensuring compatibility for recent all-in-one desktops.
Mac Mini
Supported Models: Mac Mini (M1, 2020 and later), Mac Mini (M2, 2023 and later), Mac Mini (M4, 2024 and later).
Details: All M-series Mac Minis are supported, ideal for compact yet powerful setups.
Mac Studio
Supported Models: Mac Studio (M1 Max/Ultra, 2022 and later), Mac Studio (M2 Max/Ultra, 2023 and later).
Details: Designed for professionals, all Mac Studio models are compatible with Tahoe.
Mac Pro
Supported Models: Mac Pro (Intel, 2019 and later), Mac Pro (M2 Ultra, 2023 and later).
Details: Both Intel and M2 Ultra Mac Pros support macOS 26, catering to high-end workflows.
Note: Older Intel Macs, such as the 2018 MacBook Pro, 2020 Intel MacBook Air, and 2017 iMac Pro, are not supported, reflecting Apple’s focus on M-series optimization.
What Are the Standout Features of macOS 26 Tahoe?
macOS 26 Tahoe brings a host of features to enhance usability and aesthetics:
Liquid Glass Design: Translucent, customizable interfaces for a modern look.
Apple Intelligence: On-device AI for tasks like summarizing text and creating shortcuts.
Spotlight Enhancements: Intelligent search with advanced filters and third-party cloud integration.
Continuity Upgrades: A new Phone app for iPhone call management on Macs.
Gaming Improvements: A dedicated Gaming app with Metal 4 for better performance.
Some features, particularly Apple Intelligence, may require M-series chips, limiting functionality on Intel-based Macs.
Why Are Certain Macs Excluded from macOS 26 Support?
Apple’s decision to drop support for older Intel Macs, like the 2018 MacBook Pro and 2017 iMac Pro, is driven by hardware limitations.
M-series chips offer superior AI processing and power efficiency, essential for features like Live Translation and Apple Intelligence.
The inclusion of select 2019 and 2020 Intel Macs with T2 Security chips indicates a transitional phase, but Apple is clearly prioritizing its silicon architecture.
Mac Model | Supported Versions | Chipset | Release Year | Notes |
MacBook Air | M1, M2, M4 | Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M4) | 2020–2024 | All M-series models supported for full feature access. |
MacBook Pro | M1, M2, M4; Intel (16" 2019, 13" 2020 4TB) | Apple Silicon, Intel | 2019–2024 | Intel models may lack Apple Intelligence features. |
iMac | M1, M4; Intel (2020) | Apple Silicon, Intel | 2020–2024 | 2020 Intel iMac is the last Intel-based iMac supported. |
Mac Mini | M1, M2, M4 | Apple Silicon | 2020–2024 | Compact desktops fully compatible with M-series chips. |
Mac Studio | M1 Max/Ultra, M2 Max/Ultra | Apple Silicon | 2022–2023 | Professional-grade Macs ready for Tahoe ’s demands. |
Mac Pro | Intel (2019), M2 Ultra | Intel, Apple Silicon | 2019–2023 | High-end models supported for creative workflows. |
Source: Apple WWDC 2025, 9to5Mac, Macworld
How Can You Get Ready for macOS 26 Tahoe?
To prepare your Mac for macOS 26 Tahoe:
Verify Compatibility: Check if your Mac is listed above.
Back Up Data: Use Time Machine to secure your files.
Update macOS: Ensure you’re running the latest macOS Sequoia or Ventura.
Clear Storage: Free up space for the update, likely requiring 20–30 GB.
Join the Beta: Public beta available in July 2025, with the full release in September or October.
Some Final Thoughts
macOS 26 Tahoe promises to redefine the Mac experience with its sleek Liquid Glass design and powerful AI features. By focusing on M-series Macs and a few Intel holdovers, Apple ensures that macOS 26 supported devices deliver top performance.
Whether you’re on a MacBook Pro or a Mac Studio, now’s the time to check compatibility and prepare for the fall launch.
Stay ahead of the curve and get ready to explore Tahoe’s innovative features on your Mac.