Apple has launched the first public beta of macOS Tahoe 26.4, following its developer release by one day. Public beta testers can download the update through the Software Update section in System Settings after enrolling on Apple's beta website. This version introduces several user-facing changes ahead of its planned spring launch.

A returning Compact tab layout in Safari appeases users who missed the option in prior Tahoe releases. The update also adds a Charge Limit feature, allowing MacBook users to cap battery charging between 80 and 100 percent to prolong battery health. These features address specific user requests from earlier OS iterations.

For Apple silicon Mac owners, the beta now displays warnings about apps still reliant on Rosetta 2 translation software, as Apple prepares to phase out Rosetta after macOS 27. Crucially, macOS Tahoe is confirmed as the final release for Intel-based Macs, with Apple actively removing lingering Intel-specific code. The spring release will mark a definitive end to an era for older hardware.