[Tutorial] How to Install macOS Tahoe Beta on Mac

Apple just announced macOS 26, also called Tahoe, at WWDC 2025. It's the next big update after macOS Sequoia (macOS 15) and is packed with cool features and improvements. macOS 26 is also the very first developer beta dropped on June 9, 2025.

If you're eager to experience and install macOS Tahoe right now, you can. But keep in mind that beta versions can be buggy and unstable. Here, we'll provide a full guide on how to upgrade to macOS 26 without losing any data. Let's begin!

Is My Mac Compatible with Tahoe?

Before you can upgrade to macOS Tahoe, it's important to make sure your Mac is actually supported. Only Apple Silicon Macs and a few Intel-based Macs are eligible. Here's the full list of supported devices:

• MacBook Air (M1, 2020) or later
• MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports) or later
• MacBook Pro (14-inch, 2021) or later
• MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019) or later
• Mac Mini (M1, 2020) or later
• iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2020) or later
• iMac (2020) or later
• Mac Studio (2022) or later
• Mac Pro (2019) or later

Note: Not sure which Mac you have? You can click the Apple logo > About This Mac to check your model and chip type.

Preparation for Installing macOS Tahoe Beta

When upgrading macOS, it's a good idea to use Time Machine to create a full system backup beforehand. However, if you forget to back up or your backup is lost, don't worry, as professional data recovery tools like 4DDiG Mac Data Recovery can help. In just three simple steps, 4DDiG can retrieve deleted, corrupted, or formatted files from your Mac or any Mac-based storage device. It offers a high recovery success rate and supports all macOS versions, including the latest.

The following steps are how to recover lost data with the aid of 4DDiG:

Step 1: Start 4DDiG and choose where you lost your files. It could be your Mac's internal drive or a removable device like a USB stick. Click "Scan" to proceed.

Step 2: You can pause or stop the scan at any time once the files you're looking for appear.

Step 3: After the scan is complete, you can preview each recoverable file, like photos, videos, documents, and audio, to make sure it's what you need. Then, select the desired files and click the "Recover" button.

Now, let's take a closer look at how to update to macOS 26 easily and reliably!

How to Upgrade to macOS Tahoe on a Mac?

As of now, macOS 26 is available as a developer beta, which means it may still have bugs or stability issues. That's why we don't recommend installing it on your main Mac. Want to upgrade anyway? Just follow this detailed guide to install macOS Tahoe developer beta on Mac safely.

Phase 1: Join the Apple Developer Program

To install macOS 26, your Apple ID must be enrolled in the Apple Developer Program. Here's how:

Step 1: Open your browser, and then visit developer.apple.com.

Step 2: Click "Account" on the top bar. Sign in using the same Apple ID you use on your Mac.

Step 3: Complete the registration steps.

Note: You don't need a paid membership to access beta updates, and enrolling with your Apple ID is enough.

Phase 2: Enable Beta Updates on Your Mac

Once your Apple ID is enrolled:

Step 1: On your Mac, go to "System Settings" (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).

Step 2: Navigate to "General" > "Software Update."

Step 3: Wait for the system to check for updates. You should then see a "Beta Updates" option. Proceed by clicking the small (i) icon next to it.

Step 4: From the dropdown, choose "macOS Developer Beta."

Step 5: Click "Done." macOS 26 should now appear as an available update.

Phase 3: Download and Install macOS 26

To install macOS 26, make sure you have at least 35GB of free space, though 50GB or more is recommended. After deleting unnecessary files on your Mac, follow the given steps:

Step 1: In Software Update, tap "Upgrade Now" next to macOS 26 Developer Beta.

Step 2: Your Mac will download the macOS Tahoe installer. Once the download finishes, your system will automatically restart to begin the installation.

Step 3: During the installation, your Mac may restart multiple times. This is normal, so just let the process run without interruption.

Bonus Tip: How to Download macOS 26 Full Offline Installer

If you're planning a clean installation or want to create a bootable USB drive to install macOS Tahoe on multiple Macs, downloading the full offline installer is the best way to go. Here's how you can get it:

Step 1: As already noted, make sure you're enrolled in the Apple Developer Beta Program with your Apple ID. Once registered, open the Terminal app on your Mac.

Step 2: Type and run the following command:

softwareupdate --fetch-full-installer --full-installer-version 26.0

Step 3: Wait for the download to complete. The installer will appear in your Applications folder.

Conclusion

So, that's everything related to how to upgrade to macOS Tahoe and how to download macOS 26 full offline installer. Whether you’re excited about the refreshed interface, enhanced search, or improved accessibility, Tahoe sets a new standard for macOS. Be sure to check compatibility and back up your data before upgrading to enjoy all these innovations safely and smoothly. Besides, if you lose important files during installation, 4DDiG Mac Data Recovery can get them back for you.

How to Install macOS Tahoe Developer Beta FAQ

Q1: Should I install macOS Tahoe Developer Beta?

If you want to try new features early and don't mind occasional bugs or stability issues, you can install it, preferably on a secondary Mac or separate partition. For daily use, waiting for the stable release is recommended.

Q2: Why is macOS Tahoe Developer Beta Not Showing Up in Software Update?

This usually means your Apple ID is not enrolled in the Apple Developer Program, or beta updates are not enabled in your Mac's System Settings. Besides, restarting your Mac can also help.

Q3: What are the key new Features in macOS Tahoe?

macOS Tahoe brings a fresh look with a new Liquid Glass design, a clear menu bar, and a redesigned cursor. Spotlight Search is improved with quick actions, and iOS features like Live Activities come to Mac. In addition, accessibility features are boosted with tools like a Magnifier app and Braille support.