Apple has released macOS Tahoe 26.4 (build 25E246) to the public, the largest mid-cycle update of the Tahoe lifecycle so far. It pairs several user-facing improvements with more than 70 security fixes.
The update is available now via System Settings → General → Software Update. Apple also shipped concurrent security updates for users on older versions: macOS Sequoia 15.7.5 and macOS Sonoma 14.8.5.
Charge Limit: Fine-Grained Battery Control
The headline feature for MacBook owners is the new Charge Limit control inside System Settings → Battery. Where previous versions offered a binary 80% cap, you can now choose any value between 80% and 100%. This is useful for MacBooks that spend most of their life docked at a desk — capping the charge reduces long-term battery wear without forcing the aggressive 80% ceiling.
Safari: Compact Tab Bar Returns
Tahoe 26.0 controversially removed Safari's compact tab layout. It is back in 26.4 as an opt-in setting under Safari → Settings → Tabs, freeing up additional vertical space for content.
Eight New Emoji
macOS 26.4 ships the Unicode 17.0 emoji additions, including ballet dancers, a distorted face, and a fight cloud. The new glyphs are available everywhere the system emoji picker appears.
App Updates
- Freeform: Advanced image creation and editing tools, plus a premium content library through Apple Creator Studio
- Reminders: Mark items as urgent with a keyboard shortcut and filter for urgent items inside Smart Lists
- Family Sharing: Purchase Sharing now lets group members use their own payment methods instead of the organizer's card
Security
The release notes list more than 70 security fixes across the kernel, WebKit, ImageIO, CoreMedia, and other components. None are flagged as actively exploited, but Apple still recommends installing promptly. The full advisory is available on Apple's security page.