Apple has released macOS Tahoe beta 9 to developers, arriving just a week after macOS Tahoe beta 8. The rapid pace of updates suggests that Apple is finalizing its work on the next major version of macOS, expected to debut this fall alongside iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26.
macOS Tahoe is a significant update that reshapes the Mac experience with Liquid Glass design, introducing translucent layers, gradients, and refined iconography across the Dock, menu bar, Control Center, and system apps. Spotlight has been overhauled with natural language input, quick actions, and tighter Apple Intelligence integration, turning it into a more powerful way to launch apps, complete tasks, and find content. Tahoe also brings a range of new built-in apps, including Phone for handling calls directly on the Mac, Journal for personal reflections, a Magnifier tool for accessibility, and a Games app with a Game Overlay for performance tracking.
Building on last year’s Sequoia release, macOS Tahoe further expands Apple Intelligence. The on-device AI suite now reaches deeper into system apps, with features such as real-time translations in Messages and FaceTime, advanced creative tools like Genmoji and Image Playground, and intelligent Shortcuts that automate everyday workflows. By running entirely on-device, these enhancements continue Apple’s emphasis on privacy while making Apple Intelligence more consistent across the platform.
macOS Tahoe also introduces refinements that strengthen the Mac’s place in Apple’s ecosystem. Continuity has been expanded with Live Activities now appearing on Mac, providing real-time updates from iPhone apps directly in the menu bar. The new Phone app enhances cross-device communication, while other apps such as Journal, Magnifier, and Games add fresh utility. Customization has been broadened too, letting users tint icons, personalize folders with colors and emojis, and apply transparency across system UI elements.
As with most late-stage betas, macOS Tahoe beta 9 is primarily focused on polishing the user experience and fixing remaining bugs rather than introducing new features. Developers enrolled in the Apple Developer Program can install the update through the Apple Developer Center or by enabling it in System Settings under Software Update. A public beta is expected to follow soon, giving non-developers a chance to preview Tahoe before its official release.
With beta 9 now seeded, the final version of macOS Tahoe appears to be on track for release this fall. Apple is expected to highlight the update during its September event, showcasing its new design language, expanded AI features, and deeper ecosystem integration as part of its 2025 software lineup.
