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Category: Mac & macOS

Adam Engst 52 comments

macOS 26 Tahoe Pushes FileVault Use

In macOS 26 Tahoe, Apple automatically enables FileVault during setup when users sign in with an Apple Account, and it changes how Recovery Keys are stored to protect against government overreach. You can turn FileVault off, but we recommend using it.

Adam Engst 14 comments

Apple Updates Older Operating Systems with OS 26 Security Fixes

If you haven’t yet upgraded to OS 26 (and most people shouldn’t), you should instead install the other security updates that Apple released for older operating systems. Apple even fixed a zero-day exploit that could still impact iOS and iPadOS 15 and 16.

Adam Engst 95 comments

When Should You Upgrade to Apple’s OS 26 Releases?

Apple has released the first versions of its 2026 operating systems—macOS 26 Tahoe, iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, visionOS 26, tvOS 26, and HomePod Software 26. You might want to upgrade right away, but Adam Engst advises most people to wait at least a little while. Or even longer for macOS.

Adam Engst 11 comments

OS 26 Scheduled for 15 September 2025

Apple has revealed that the initial versions of its 2026 operating systems—macOS 26 Tahoe, iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, visionOS 26, tvOS 26, and HomePod Software 26—will ship on 15 September 2025.

Adam Engst 30 comments

BasicAppleGuy’s macOS Icon History

BasicAppleGuy chronicles the evolution of Mac system icons from 2001 to the present, revealing how Apple’s new Liquid Glass design in macOS 26 Tahoe compares—often unfavorably—to earlier versions.

Adam Engst 21 comments

Do You Use It? We’re Highly Invested in the Apple Ecosystem

Our latest reader survey confirms what you might expect: TidBITS readers are deeply committed to Apple’s ecosystem. From the Mac to the Vision Pro, discover which Apple products are central to our readers’ lives, where competing devices make inroads, and which categories haven’t captured our imagination (or dollars).

Adam Engst 29 comments

Apple Updates Block Zero-Day Malicious Image Exploit

Apple has released emergency security updates for multiple operating systems to block a zero-day vulnerability exploited in sophisticated attacks targeting specific individuals.

Adam Engst 37 comments

Apple Focuses on Security in iOS 18.6, macOS 15.6, and Other x.6 OS Updates

Apple’s latest operating system updates focus primarily on security updates, with iOS and iPadOS receiving new EU app marketplace options and fixes for sharing memory movies in Photos.

Adam Engst 5 comments

Survey Results: How TidBITS Readers Position Themselves to Work

Our recent survey of TidBITS readers examined eight different working positions, from traditional desk setups to treadmill workstations. The results show that while most stick to conventional seating, a surprising number use alternative arrangements.

Adam Engst 12 comments

Apple Opens Public Betas for macOS 26 Tahoe, iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and HomePod Software 26

Ready for a glimpse into our future as Apple users? Public betas for macOS 26 Tahoe, iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and other major Apple operating systems are now available—but beware of bugs and make sure to back up your devices first.

Adam Engst 19 comments

Lessons from 14 Years at a Standing Desk

In response to a reader query, Adam Engst describes the standing desk setup he has used since 2011, explains the ergonomics involved, offers setup advice, answers questions, and kicks off a poll to see how other TidBITS readers work.

Adam Engst 4 comments

Marcin Wichary’s Frame of Preference Explores 20 Years of Mac Control Panels

Through working emulators and clever interactive elements, Frame of Preference brings two decades of Mac control panel history to life, offering both a nostalgic journey and insights into Apple’s interface design evolution.

Adam Engst 49 comments

Switching from a 27-inch iMac to a 14-inch MacBook Pro: A Fresh Start

After more than a decade using a 27-inch iMac and a 27-inch Thunderbolt Display, Adam Engst shares his experience transitioning to a 14-inch MacBook Pro, exploring how differences in input devices, cloud storage, and modern display options shaped his approach to setting up his new Mac.

Adam Engst 10 comments

Apple Opens Service Program for Mac mini No Power Issue

No one wants to discover their Mac won’t turn on one day. If you have an M2 Mac mini from mid-to-late 2024, Apple has a new repair program you should be aware of, even if your Mac is working fine today.

Adam Engst 18 comments

The Real System Requirements for OS 26

For the most part, Apple has only dropped a few older models from its compatibility lists. However, that includes several Intel-based Macs, and the company has also clarified how much longer the remaining supported models will receive updates.