How to install MacOS 26 on your MacBook (and which models support it)

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How to install MacOS 26 on your MacBook (and which models support it)

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Kyle Kucharski/ZDNET

Apple just announced MacOS 26, the latest version of its operating system for the Mac and MacBook, and it’s packed with visual customization options, its new Liquid Glass design language, and some smart upgrades to the Spotlight feature that could be a serious game changer for productivity. 

While the full release of the new OS, nicknamed Tahoe won’t be released until September, I don’t blame you if you’re champing at the bit to test out the new features on your Mac right now in the Developer Beta. Luckily, this is easy to do. You’ll just need register as a developer and download the beta version onto your device.

Also: Everything announced at Apple’s WWDC 2025 keynote: Liquid Glass, MacOS Tahoe, and more

 As with any beta, you’ll no doubt run into bugs, glitches, and software that isn’t fully optimized yet, so you’ll want to proceed with caution. But if you’re ready to dive in, here’s how you can access the developer beta right now. 

How to install the MacOS 26 developer beta

What you need: A Mac with Apple Silicon running MacOS 15 Sequoia, and an Apple ID used in the Apple Developer Program. This means that MacOS 26 is not compatible with Intel-based Macs, and some older Macs that do support MacOS 15 Sequoia may not work, either. If you’re unsure, you’ll want to consult Apple’s official list or see our breakdown below. 

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Apple

Go to the App Store on your Mac or MacBook, and download the Apple Developer app.

If you aren’t already a member of the Apple Developer Program, you can sign up to become one in the app. There’s a free tier that lets you test developer beta versions of iPadOS and a paid subscription that gives you in-depth access to comprehensive development tools, code-level support, app management, and more. An annual membership costs $99.


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You can navigate to your settings to install the MacOS 26 developer beta if your device runs MacOS 15 Sequoia, and is used with an Apple ID enrolled in the Apple Developer Program:

  1. Go to your Mac Settings
  2. Tap General
  3. Select Software Update
  4. Go to Beta Updates
  5. Choose the MacOS 26 Developer Beta

Also: Every iPad model compatible with Apple’s iPadOS 26 (and which ones aren’t)

If you can’t see this option, go to Settings, select Privacy & Security, and make sure to enable Developer Mode.


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Which Macs are compatible with MacOS 26?

You’ll need a Mac with Apple Silicon (not Intel) running MacOS 15, which is generally from after 2020. Here’s the complete list of compatible models: 

  • MacBook Air with Apple silicon (2020 and later)
  • MacBook Pro with Apple silicon (2020 and later)
  • MacBook Pro (16‑inch, 2019)
  • MacBook Pro (13‑inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
  • iMac (2020 and later)
  • Mac mini (2020 and later)
  • Mac Studio (2022 and later)
  • Mac Pro (2019 and later)

My Mac isn’t on that list, but I’m running Sequoia. Is it compatible?

Unfortunately, some Macs from 2020 or before that are compatible with Sequoia won’t work with MacOS 26. The following models fall into that category: 

  • MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2020)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2018)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2019)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports)
  • iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2019)
  • iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2019)
  • iMac Pro (2017)
  • Mac mini (2018)

When will MacOS 26 be released?

Apple is releasing the MacOS 26 developer beta during WWDC 2025, and the public beta version will likely be released in July. If past years are any indication, the general release of MacOS 26 will take place in September.

What should I do before installing the MacOS 26 developer beta?

You can always join the Apple Beta program to get the latest beta versions of MacOS. Before you download a beta version of an operating system, keep these housekeeping items in mind:

Also: 4 new MacOS 26 features Windows PC users have been enjoying for years

  • Back up your device and personal information.
  • Don’t download beta software, which will likely have bugs and glitches, on your everyday Mac. 
  • Beta versions are released so you can test new features and share feedback to improve MacOS.

How do I install the MacOS 26 public beta version?

When the public beta releases in July, you’ll need a Mac that falls into the same categories as above, and you’ll need to download the public beta version. 

  1. Go to your Mac’s Settings and select General.
  2. Go to Software Update in Settings.
  3. Enable Beta Updates. To enable Beta Updates, go to Beta Updates and select the MacOS version you’d like to access. This setting is turned off by default. 
  4. Select MacOS 26 Public Beta. Then you’ll begin receiving automatic software updates to the latest beta version of MacOS 26. By the time the public beta is released, Apple will have two beta versions: MacOS 26 public beta and MacOS 26 developer beta. Once you do this, return to the previous page. If an update is available now, your Mac will prompt you to download and install it.

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