macOS Tahoe Transforms the Mac with Liquid Glass Design, Built-In Phone App, and Smarter Tools

Apple has officially introduced macOS Tahoe, the next major update to its desktop operating system, bringing a blend of visual polish, real-time information tools, and deeper cross-device functionality. Announced at WWDC 2025, the update positions the Mac as a more immersive, intelligent workspace — and one that feels increasingly in sync with the rest of Apple’s ecosystem.

The most noticeable change is the debut of Apple’s Liquid Glass design across the macOS interface. Windows, sidebars, and system elements now feature layered transparency and soft lighting effects that subtly respond to the content and context behind them. This aesthetic, originally seen in visionOS, now gives the Mac desktop a sense of depth and movement without sacrificing clarity.

Beyond visuals, macOS Tahoe introduces several new capabilities designed to enhance daily workflows. Live Activities — long available on iPhone — are now supported on the Mac. These dynamic widgets live in the menu bar and display real-time updates like timers, sports scores, ride tracking, or flight progress, offering glanceable information without pulling users out of their current tasks.

In a first for macOS, Apple is also bringing a native Phone app to the desktop. When paired with an iPhone, users can make and receive cellular calls directly from their Mac, access voicemail, screen unknown callers, and view contact posters — creating a more seamless communication experience between devices.

Spotlight search receives an intelligence boost as well. With the help of Apple Intelligence, it can now surface more relevant suggestions based on context, previous app usage, or time of day. This makes it easier to locate files, apps, and even perform system actions without digging through menus.

Control Center has been refined with more customization and instant access to system settings like volume, brightness, and smart home controls — all styled with the new Liquid Glass aesthetic. Meanwhile, Apple’s improved widget support extends to desktop placement, allowing users to pin useful tools directly to their workspace.

macOS Tahoe also brings enhancements for developers, including updated APIs for creating apps that take advantage of the new visual layers and dynamic behaviors. System performance remains a focus, with Apple ensuring that the new visuals and real-time features operate smoothly across its latest Mac hardware.

With macOS Tahoe, Apple is aiming for more than visual consistency. It’s building a platform that feels alive, aware, and in harmony with the broader Apple experience. The developer beta is available now, with a public release expected this fall alongside the next wave of Mac devices.