MacOS Tahoe 26.1 Update Released for Mac
Apple has released macOS Tahoe 26.1 for all Mac users, being the first major point release software update for macOS Tahoe since it debuted a few months ago. macOS Tahoe 26.1 includes a few new features, some bug fixes, and security patches, making it an important update to install for any Mac user that is running the Tahoe operating system.
The most notable change in macOS Tahoe 26.1 is an optional toggle to tone down the Liquid Glass interface, which has been somewhat controversial since it debuted, with users complaining of some legibility issues with the new appearance.
Separately, other updates are available for Apple devices, including iOS 26.1 for iPhone, iPadOS 26.1 for iPad, watchOS 26.1 for Apple Watch, tvOS 26.1 for Apple TV, macOS Sequoia 15.7.2, macOS Sonoma 14.8.2, and iOS 18.7.2.
How to Download & Install MacOS Tahoe 26.1 Update
Be sure you backup your Mac with Time Machine before beginning the software update process:
- From the  Apple menu, choose “System Settings”
- Go to “General” and then choose “Software Update”
- Select to “Update Now” to begin installing macOS Tahoe 26.1 update on the Mac
The download size is significant, and installing the update may take a while, requiring the Mac to restart.
If you’re running MacOS Sequoia or Sonoma, you will find not only the macOS Tahoe 26.1 update, but also security updates for existing MacOS versions as macOS Sequoia 15.7.2 or macOS Sonoma 14.8.2.
It is not yet clear if macOS Tahoe 26.1 will address some of the problems experienced with macOS Tahoe, whether that be general sluggishness, or battery life reductions, if you notice anything in particular, please share it in the comments.
macOS Tahoe 26.1 Direct Download Links
The links below point to Apple CDN’s for the macOS 26.1 installer package file, and the macOS 26.1 IPSM firmware file, hosted on Apple’s servers:
MacOS Sequoia 15.7.2 & MacOS Sonoma 14.8.2 Installer Download Links
macOS Tahoe 26.1 Release Notes
Release notes for MacOS Tahoe 26.1 are fairly short and don’t mention many changes or any particular bug fixes, but are as follows:
This update adds a new tinted option for Liquid Glass along with other features, bug fixes, and security updates for your Mac.
For information on the security content of Apple software updates, please visit: https://support.apple.com/100100
Don’t forget to update your iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and other Macs as well, as OS 26.1 updates are available for all eligible devices.
