After weeks of testing and the usual beta phase, Apple has released macOS Tahoe 26.1 is official This update is for all users with compatible devices. It focuses on refining the user experience, incorporating requested visual adjustments, and strengthening communication and security.
Key new features in macOS Tahoe 26.1
The most visible change comes with Liquid Glass and its new Tinted optionThis adjustment reduces transparency and improves readability in windows, panels, and notifications. Apple has also added minor functional improvements to complete the package.
- Liquid Glass with Clear/TintedChoose between a more transparent appearance or one with greater opacity to facilitate reading.
- Apple Music AutoMix Via AirPlay: automatic fades and transitions between songs are now maintained when sending audio to compatible speakers.
- FaceTime with improved audio: greater voice clarity in conditions of limited bandwidth or unstable connections.
- Web filters and security in communications: enabled by default in accounts of minors (13–17 years; age may vary by region).
As is often the case, the official notes They don't always include all the changes. There may be small tweaks and corrections that aren't detailed, but that contribute to a more stable day-to-day experience.
How to use the new settings
To modify the appearance of Liquid Glass, go to System Settings > Appearance Choose between Clear (more transparent) or Tinted (more opaque and with higher contrast). The Tinted option softens complex backgrounds and makes interface elements more visible.
This setting is independent of Reduce transparency In Accessibility. If you were already using that option, you can disable it and try the new Liquid Glass control to fine-tune the balance between aesthetics and readability.
On Apple Music, AutoMix now keeps the fades when using AirPlayIf you send playback to a HomePod or compatible speakers, the transitions between tracks will remain active, resulting in a more continuous listening experience without abrupt silences.
FaceTime calls benefit from a audio processing More robust when the network is tight: the system adjusts the flow to preserve voice clarity in low coverage or saturated Wi-Fi scenarios, without you having to touch anything.
In the minors' accountsmacOS includes built-in communication security and web filters designed to limit access to adult content. The age range may vary by country, and you can always review it in Family Safety if needed.
Availability, installation, and other changes
The update is located in System Settings > General > Software updateIf it doesn't appear right away, try refreshing the section after a few minutes or restarting your Mac.
- Opens System settings.
- Go to General admission and go to Software Update.
- press Update Now to install macOS Tahoe 26.1.
Before updating, it is recommended to do a Backup and keep your Mac plugged into a power source. The download size may vary depending on your computer, and in some cases may be several GB.
Apple includes in this release security patches In addition to the visible changes, technical details are published on the company's support website when the security document is updated for this version.
Several users have detected small visual touch-ups, such as an updated Network icon or a setting of the Macintosh HD iconThey are not listed in the notes, but they fit with the general approach of this version to simplify and standardize the interface.
Apart from the above, the company talks about Stability fixes and improvements common issues. If you were expecting solutions to very specific problems, it's a good idea to test for a few days after installation to confirm if they have been resolved in your configuration.
With this release, macOS Tahoe 26.1 solidifies the platform's lifecycle: more control over the interfaceUseful adjustments in multimedia and communication, and a reinforced security layer for families, all without drastic changes that disrupt the work routine.
