What's New In macOS 26.4

In This Tutorial

Learn about the new features and changes in macOS 26.4, including updates to Freeform, Safari tabs, Reminders, MacBook battery settings, and more.

Freeform Updated For Apple Creator Studio (00:32)

• Freeform now uses the new icon from Apple Creator Studio.
• Creator Studio subscribers can access a content hub with stock media and AI image generation.
• Non-subscribers see a slightly updated interface but keep the same functionality.

Safari Compact Tab Layout (02:04)

• Safari’s compact tab layout option has returned.
• Enable it in Safari Settings > Tabs to combine the address and tab bar.
• This recreates the one-bar interface that many users preferred.

Improvements To Urgent Setting For Reminders (02:58)

• Urgent reminders now have a menu option and keyboard shortcut (Shift+Command+U).
• You can quickly mark items as urgent or remove urgency.
• An Urgent smart list shows all urgent reminders, and it can be toggled in View settings.

MacBook Charge Limit Setting (03:59)

• Battery settings now let you set a maximum charge (80%–100%).
• Limiting charging can extend battery longevity.
• Choosing 100% lets you set it as a one-time or permanent option.

Family Sharing Payments For Other Adults (04:44)

• Adults in Family Sharing who aren’t the organizer can now use their own payment methods.
• This allows separate credit cards without relying on the family organizer.

Support For New AirPods Max 2 (05:04)

• macOS 26.4 is required for AirPods Max 2 compatibility.
• Prior versions may not show all new options or features for these headphones.

Subtitles Interface Changes? (05:25)

• Subtitles and captions settings are easier to access with real-time previews.
• Changes are subtle and may still require going to Settings > Accessibility > Hearing > Captions.

Warning For Rosetta 2 Apps (06:12)

• macOS now warns when using Intel-based apps via Rosetta 2.
• Apple will support Rosetta 2 in macOS 27, dropping it in macOS 28.
• Check your apps to ensure they are updated for Apple Silicon.

New Emoji Characters (07:07)

• A new set of Unicode emoji is now available.
• Includes standard characters and a ballet dancer with skin tone variations.
• Use them in the Emoji and Character Viewer across macOS and iOS.

Summary

macOS 26.4 brings small but useful updates: Freeform integrates Creator Studio tools, Safari’s compact tabs return, Reminders get an urgent shortcut, and MacBook battery charging can be limited. Additional tweaks include new emoji, Rosetta 2 warnings, Family Sharing payment options, AirPods Max 2 support, and minor subtitle interface changes.