Essential news and tutorials to get the most out of your Mac

If you're interested in the latest news, rumors, and tutorials about Macs , you're in the right place. In recent years, Apple's computer ecosystem has changed dramatically: new Apple Silicon chips, MacBook Pro redesigns, the arrival of macOS Tahoe, advancements in graphics power designed for gaming, and even the possible arrival of a truly affordable MacBook with an iPhone chip.

At the same time, tricks, essential apps, and solutions to common problems that many users encounter in their daily lives continue to appear: mice that stop working, batteries that last less than expected, malware disguised as legitimate apps… and also guides to get the most out of your Mac, whether with a VPN, fine-tuning power settings , or learning how to install macOS betas before anyone else.

The latest in Mac hardware: Cheap MacBooks, M5 and M6 chips, iMac Pro, and more

Apple is preparing a real game-changer for its laptop lineup: rumors are circulating about a budget MacBook with an iPhone chip that would cost under $600. This model would be aimed at students, users new to macOS, or those who simply need web browsing, office applications, and some multimedia without breaking the bank.

Rumors suggest this budget laptop will feature a 12,9-inch screen and the A18 Pro chip —an iPhone processor adapted for use in a computer. This device is expected to launch in the first half of 2026, and leaks indicate Apple may be using simpler materials, including colored plastics, to reduce costs and visually differentiate it from the more expensive MacBook Pro and Air models.

This wouldn't be a simple, isolated experiment. Leaks suggest Apple will launch up to three MacBooks simultaneously to cater to various user profiles: a budget model with an iPhone chip, an everyday MacBook with an M-series chip, and a MacBook Pro for professional users. This aligns with internal documents and product testing listings that mention up to 17 new Mac models slated for release between now and 2026.

In the high-end range, the MacBook Pro takes center stage with its M5 Pro, M5 Max, and even a future M5 Ultra chips . The first devices with the M5 chip have already been unveiled, but all indications suggest we'll see new configurations with Pro and Max variants, designed for 4K and 8K video editing, demanding software development, 3D, AI, and other highly intensive tasks.

An M5 Ultra chip is also expected for the Mac Studio , aimed at professional users who need even more CPU and GPU cores, while the Mac Pro could jump to an M4 Ultra chip or its successor, consolidating the complete transition to Apple Silicon and definitively leaving Macs with Intel processors out of the game.

Redesigns, OLED screens and the future of the MacBook Pro

The MacBook Pro is set to undergo one of the biggest design changes in its history . Various reports indicate that the 2026 model will be the true "ultimate redesign": a new chassis, an OLED display, spectacular performance improvements, and even greater integration with the rest of the Apple lineup.

Among the most talked-about innovations are the OLED screens, possibly touch-enabled , which would offer true blacks, more vibrant colors, and improved energy efficiency. However, there's considerable controversy surrounding this: some reports suggest that the OLED screen could be delayed longer than expected, leading to disappointment among users who had anticipated this leap forward.

Another big question is whether or not Face ID will come to the MacBook Pro . It's known that Apple is working on an ultra-thin Face ID system, perfect for fitting into a laptop lid, and there have been references to Mac models with this technology. However, other reports suggest that Face ID will take time to replace Touch ID on Macs, at least not across the board.

Furthermore, there has been talk of bringing Ultra chips to the MacBook Pro , which would transform these laptops into true mobile workstations. For now, this news is more about exploratory plans than confirmed products, but it aligns with Apple's commitment to offering more graphics and computing power in a portable format.

Among these leaks is also the end of the famous screen notch: macOS Tahoe includes references that point to a design change that could eliminate the notch in future generations of MacBook, integrating the camera and sensors in a less intrusive way.

New desktop ranges: iMac, iMac Pro, Mac mini and Mac Studio

The world of Apple desktops isn't standing still either. It's been leaked that Apple is working on a new iMac with an OLED display , which would improve contrast, color reproduction, and energy efficiency. This iMac will likely feature an even thinner and more minimalist design, while maintaining its signature all-in-one aesthetic.

Furthermore, there are rumors of an iMac Pro with an M5 Max chip , designed for professional creators who need a lot of power but prefer an all-in-one form factor. This model would recapture the spirit of the old iMac Pro, which was discontinued, but with Apple Silicon architecture as its foundation.

In the realm of Apple's mini PCs, the Mac mini with the M4 chip is practically a given. Successors to the current Mac mini are expected to deliver a significant leap in performance and efficiency, while remaining the most affordable entry point to the Mac desktop world.

There's also been a lot of talk about the Mac Studio as the flagship machine for the M5 Ultra chip , which would offer immense raw power in a very compact form factor. And at the opposite end of the spectrum, the Mac Pro tower is still around, with expansion options and designed for very specific professional environments, although it remains largely unknown to the average user due to its price and features.

Alongside these official models, some are exploring alternatives to the Mac mini: compact computers with Windows or Linux that, although they don't have macOS, can match the raw power of the Mac mini and are attractive due to their price or expansion possibilities, always keeping in mind that integration with the Apple ecosystem is not an option.

macOS 26 Tahoe, Sequoia and the future of the Mac operating system

Software is just as important as hardware, and macOS is undergoing one of its most profound changes in recent years . Apple unveiled macOS 26 Tahoe, a system packed with new features, a visual redesign, and greater consistency with other platforms: iOS 26, iPadOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26.

Before its official name was revealed, several possibilities were considered for the successor to macOS 16, such as macOS Miramar or macOS Skyline . Ultimately, Apple opted for "Tahoe," in honor of the Californian lake, continuing its tradition of naming its operating systems after iconic locations.

macOS Tahoe introduces a significant change to icons and design elements . Up to 21 system icons have been redesigned, including the classic Macintosh HD icon, which now has a more modern look. These changes are not merely cosmetic: they aim to unify the visual identity across all Apple systems and make the interface clearer.

In this process, Apple has also removed or modified classic features, such as Launchpad, which has disappeared in macOS Tahoe, generating discontent among some members of the community. Fortunately, third-party alternatives exist that allow users to replace its function with equally or even more powerful application launchers.

Alongside Tahoe, macOS Sequoia (macOS 15) remains very much in use . It was introduced earlier and represented a significant step forward in stability, performance, and features. The problem for many users is that their Macs are no longer officially compatible with this system, leaving them stuck on older versions like macOS Ventura… unless they resort to alternative methods.

Compatibility, betas, and the end of Intel-powered Macs

With each new version of macOS comes the inevitable list of compatible and incompatible models . In the case of macOS 26 Tahoe, there are some notable absences: several Macs with Intel processors have stopped receiving updates, marking the end of their official support lifecycle.

Apple has officially ended support for Intel-based Macs in terms of new macOS versions. These computers will continue to function, of course, but they will no longer receive major system updates, affecting both new features and certain security patches in the medium term.

Those who want to be among the first to try out the new system features can install the macOS 26 beta . The official procedure involves enrolling your Mac in Apple's beta program, downloading the corresponding profile, and updating from System Preferences. It's a relatively simple process, but it's always a good idea to back up your system beforehand.

For those with an officially unsupported Mac, patch-based methods have existed and continue to exist that allow the installation of more recent versions of macOS. For example, some users have managed to get a 2013 Mac running macOS Sequoia without apparent problems thanks to community tools. However, it's important to be aware of the risks: potential bugs, lack of support, and voiding of warranty.

There are also specific guides explaining how to install macOS Ventura or Sequoia on unsupported computers , taking advantage of these patches. It's not a process for everyone, but it allows you to extend the lifespan of computers that would otherwise become obsolete much sooner.

New features and highlights of macOS Tahoe

macOS Tahoe has arrived with numerous versions and revisions: from the initial beta to the macOS Tahoe 26.1 and 26.2 updates, each with new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements. These intermediate versions refine details and add small new features that, together, significantly improve the user experience.

Among the most talked-about features are the spectacular new screensavers , with up to 15 new animations that integrate better with the desktop, as well as visual tweaks that make the system feel more modern. There's also a significant focus on accessibility and customization of the work environment.

In terms of productivity, one of the most noteworthy improvements is related to video calls in macOS 26.2 . Apple has introduced new ways to improve image quality and manage the camera, something especially relevant now that remote work and online meetings have become commonplace.

macOS Tahoe has also introduced adjustments that directly affect security, such as changes to certificate and permission management , in addition to some controversial decisions, such as the removal of a popular feature that many users appreciated and whose disappearance has not been well received.

Finally, Tahoe is a key piece in Apple's strategy to close the door on so-called "hackintosh": with macOS 26, the net is further tightened around installations on unauthorized hardware , reinforcing the dependence on Apple Silicon chips and making it much more difficult for the system to work on PCs outside the brand's official catalog.

Essential apps, tips and habits to take care of your Mac

Beyond the big releases, everyday use of a Mac is much more enjoyable if you know the key applications and some basic tricks . There are lists of 10 apps that every new Mac user should try: from password managers to productivity tools, advanced text editors, and utilities for organizing windows and automating tasks.

As for maintenance, adopting simple habits can extend the life of your Mac for years. These include keeping your operating system and apps updated, avoiding filling your hard drive to capacity, using surge protectors, and controlling which programs open at login to prevent overloading the startup process.

There are also specific adjustments to improve MacBook battery life , such as slightly reducing screen brightness, enabling intelligent power management, disabling features you don't use (Bluetooth, background location), and reviewing the settings of apps that constantly consume a lot of resources.

For those who notice their computer getting slower over time, there are handy lists with 7 tricks to speed up a sluggish Mac : from freeing up space and checking Activity Monitor to detect abnormal processes, to cleaning the system of extensions and obsolete elements that load in the background, and even keyboard shortcuts to maximize windows.

And if you use Finder a lot, you should master at least 5 essential tricks of this application : keyboard shortcuts to move faster, use of color labels, custom views for each folder, and more advanced ways to search for files, making the most of the system's search engine.

Launchpad, alternatives, and minor design changes in macOS

One of the most striking changes in macOS Tahoe has been the removal of Launchpad , the panel where all installed applications appeared, similar to the iOS home screen. Many users relied on it daily, so its absence has generated considerable debate.

To replace it, there are at least five interesting alternatives to Launchpad in the form of third-party applications. These launchers allow you to search for apps by name, create categories, add global keyboard shortcuts, and manage everything more flexibly than Apple's original tool.

Tahoe's aesthetic changes also affect iconic symbols like the Macintosh HD logo , which now sports a flatter, more modern look. It's a minor detail, but for those who have been using Macs for years, it might be jarring to see symbols that seemed untouchable being updated.

These new features are complemented by a system-wide revamped iconography system, maintaining a more consistent visual style across Mac, iPhone, and iPad . This, in addition to being an aesthetic change, reduces the feeling of transitioning between platforms when moving from one device to another.

For its part, the Finder application remains the heart of file management. Understanding its hidden features, shortcuts, and advanced menus makes all the difference between basic Mac use and truly efficient use , especially for professionals working with large volumes of documents.

Mac and video games: Cyberpunk 2077 and an increasingly "gamer" catalog

For a long time, it was said that the Mac wasn't a computer for gaming, but that's slowly changing. Major studios are bringing their titles to Apple Silicon and, in some cases, with truly amazing results: Cyberpunk 2077 is already available for Mac and has become one of the flagship titles in the catalog.

This game, known as much for its ambition as for its numerous bugs at launch, has arrived on Mac in its Ultimate Edition, with very demanding technical requirements . Even so, there are MacBook Pro configurations capable of running it at 120 fps with Ultra graphics settings, demonstrating the graphical potential of the latest generation M chips.

This isn't an isolated case: five major games have been announced that are about to launch on Mac , solidifying the platform as a viable option for many gamers who previously hadn't even considered it. Apple has also been highlighting these capabilities in its official presentations for some time.

The arrival of conversion tools and real-time rendering technologies has made it easier for developers to adapt their games to macOS. For users, this translates into a more complete gaming experience without needing a separate PC , something that until recently was almost essential for serious gaming.

However, it's a good idea to carefully review the requirements of each game and make sure your Mac meets the necessary specifications, both in terms of GPU power and the amount of free memory and storage, to avoid surprises with particularly demanding titles.

Security and malware on macOS: threats and protection

Although macOS has a reputation for being a secure system, the reality is that malware specifically targeting Macs is becoming increasingly common . One of the most worrying cases is a North Korean malicious program that masquerades as a video call from a popular app in an attempt to trick users.

Threats have also emerged that disguise themselves as seemingly legitimate applications , mimicking icons and names of well-known programs. These fake installers are downloaded from untrustworthy websites and can compromise personal data, passwords, and even remote access to the computer if the user falls for the trap.

The general recommendation is clear: always download applications from the Mac App Store or from the developers' official websites, keep your system and antivirus (if used) up to date, and be wary of suspicious attachments or links that arrive via email or messaging.

macOS Tahoe and Sequoia include ongoing improvements in this area, strengthening Gatekeeper, XProtect, and other internal security systems . Even so, the weakest link remains the user, which is why it's so important to be informed about the most common tactics used by attackers.

Meanwhile, Apple continues to tighten the conditions for running unsigned software or altering internal system components, a strategy that has both supporters and detractors but, in terms of security, complicates life for anyone trying to exploit vulnerabilities in macOS.

Common problems and practical solutions on Mac

However polished the system may be, sometimes problems arise that frustrate the user . A recent example is that of some Logitech mice that stopped working correctly on Macs after a specific software update.

In many of these cases, the solution involves updating Logitech's software, reinstalling the drivers , or using alternative connections (such as switching from a USB dongle to Bluetooth or vice versa). It's also recommended to delete old system preferences related to the mouse and restart your Mac for the changes to take effect.

Another common problem is that, after restarting your computer, macOS reopens all the running applications . While some find this convenient, others find it annoying and it slows down startup. Fortunately, there are settings in System Preferences that allow you to prevent apps from automatically restarting.

MacBook batteries are also a frequent source of concern. By adjusting certain parameters, such as optimized charging, screen brightness, or wireless network usage, you can significantly improve battery life and reduce long-term wear and tear—especially useful if you frequently use your laptop while unplugged.

Finally, when your Mac is slower than expected, it's a good idea to review the tips for speeding up the system: free up space, uninstall unnecessary applications, clean up login items, and check for anomalous processes that consume CPU or memory for no apparent reason.

Key tutorials: VPN, macOS betas, and system tricks

Among the most requested tutorials are those explaining how to use a VPN on macOS . Typically, the VPN service itself offers a Mac client that installs like any other app; from there, you simply log in and choose a server.

When your VPN doesn't have its own client, you can always configure it manually from System Preferences by adding a new VPN connection with the information provided by your provider (server, protocol type, username, and password). It's a slightly more technical process, but perfectly manageable if you follow a step-by-step guide.

Another frequently searched topic is how to install the macOS 26 beta on your Mac . To do this, you need to enroll your device in Apple's beta software program, download the corresponding profile, and update. It's important to understand that these versions can contain bugs, so it's not advisable to install betas on critical workstations.

As for daily use, there are many small macOS Tahoe tricks that many users are unaware of: new keyboard shortcuts, hidden options in the context menu, improvements in window management or the clipboard , accessibility features that, when used properly, also increase productivity, or even guides to download photos from the iPhone and manage them from the Mac.

There are also plenty of guides on how to adapt your Mac to your personal preferences, from customizing the Dock and menu bar to configuring the Finder to always show the information that really interests you, avoiding wasting time opening unnecessary folders and menus.

Curiosities, nostalgia and surprising accessories for Mac

The Mac universe isn't just about technical specifications. Every now and then, curious and nostalgic projects appear that delight fans of the brand. One of them is an iMac G3 recreated with LEGO bricks, a truly geeky creation that evokes memories of many users' first computers.

Another striking invention is the so-called "pico-mac-nano," a miniature, functional replica of the original 1984 Macintosh , standing just 62 millimeters tall. Despite its size, it supports a USB keyboard and mouse, allowing users to relive the experience of the early Macs in a very unique way.

Among the most surprising accessories is a free app that turns the MacBook's trackpad into a relatively accurate scale thanks to Force Touch technology. The trackpad doesn't actually depress; instead, it uses pressure sensors and a haptic motor to simulate a click, and this same sensitivity can be used to estimate the weight of small objects.

There are also accessories that promise to turn any MacBook screen into a touchscreen , anticipating any potential Apple decisions in this area. While rumors suggest we might see an official touchscreen MacBook Pro in the future, for now, third-party companies are filling that gap.

Even public institutions are getting involved in the Mac world: in Madrid, for example, the City Council organizes auctions where you can get a lost MacBook for just over 20 euros , sourced from lost and found items that were never claimed. However, they usually require a bit of luck and keeping an eye on the announcements.

AI, browsers, and productivity on the Mac desktop

Artificial intelligence is also making a strong impact on the Mac desktop. A good example is Dia, a browser with integrated AI that has just been released for macOS, and which promises to make browsing smarter by summarizing content, answering questions, and automating small everyday tasks. There are also collections of tips and tricks for Mozilla Firefox that help you get more out of the browser.

Microsoft, for its part, has incorporated AI-powered Copilot into its Edge browser , available for free on both PC and Mac. This allows users to have an assistant that can help with writing, research, or summarizing tasks directly from the browser sidebar.

In the realm of desktop apps, the creators of the popular Shortcuts application have developed a new AI app specifically for Mac , with meticulous system integration. This tool automates complex workflows by leveraging user context and learning from usage patterns.

All of this is part of a clear trend: the Mac is becoming a productivity hub powered by artificial intelligence , where assistants integrated into apps and browsers reduce repetitive tasks and help find the right information in less time.

Although we are still in a relatively early stage, these solutions suggest that, in a few years, it will be normal to have AI available in almost any work tool that we install on our Mac.

Interesting details about the Mac world: Finder, updates, and announcements

Beyond the purely technical aspects, there are curious details that are part of Mac culture. One of the most striking is the Finder application's face , that blue and white smile we've seen for years and whose true meaning many don't know. It represents the idea of ​​a friendly, approachable, almost human computer, in contrast to the cold image computers had in the 80s and 90s.

Apple is also experimenting with how it manages updates in its physical stores. It has been reported that the company is exploring updating Macs in the Apple Store without removing them from their boxes , likely through wireless solutions or massive network connections that would allow them to be up to date before being put on sale.

In terms of marketing, there's no shortage of creative ads: one of the latest showed that the MacBook is for everyone, even those with low vision , highlighting the system's accessibility options. It's a strategy to reinforce the idea that Apple products aren't just for expert users or "professional creatives."

Mac sales have skyrocketed at certain times, to the point that the growth of these computers is double that of the overall PC market . Even so, Apple is not without its problems, such as certain trade or political tensions in key markets like the United States.

On a historical level, there are also striking anecdotes, such as the case of a manufacturer who refused to collaborate with Steve Jobs at the time, something that over time did not turn out to be exactly beneficial for that company, given the evolution of Apple and the relevance that the Mac has achieved.

Taken together, all these news items, rumors, tutorials, and curiosities show that the Mac ecosystem is experiencing one of its most interesting moments: between the complete transition to Apple Silicon, the arrival of macOS Tahoe, the push for AI, and the possible emergence of a truly affordable MacBook , the future looks very busy for both those who use a Mac for work and those who enjoy it for leisure or simple technological hobby.