Apple’s next Mac operating system is called macOS Tahoe, for Lake Tahoe, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.
The new MacOS, set to be unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9, will reportedly stick with Apple’s convention since 2013 of naming the operating system version after scenic California nature spots such as Big Sur and Sequoia.
A representative for Apple didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.
The version number will also change, jumping from what would have been MacOS 16 to MacOS 26. Apple is changing OS versions across its platforms to line up with the year of their release, so we’ll have MacOS 26, iOS 26, TVOS 26 and so on for software being introduced in 2025, but having the greatest reach in 2026.
According to Gurman, the new OS will be a major overhaul to the Mac operating system, and the new name could allude to a visual refresh. “The deep blue lake is … known to show the reflection of the sky and surrounding mountains — something that flicks at the striking visuals of the new user interface,” he wrote.
Best Internet Providers in South Lake Tahoe
In addition to design changes, Apple is also expected to make major announcements related to its gaming platform and health initiatives. You can check out what to expect from WWDC 2025 and how to watch the June 9 keynote.
Reps for the real Lake Tahoe respond
Those who promote the scenic region were pleased with the name news.
“If Apple’s aiming for breathtaking and iconic, they picked the right name — Lake Tahoe is awe-inspiring by design,” Ryn Muat, communications and community outreach manager for VisitLakeTahoe.com, told CNET. “We’re proud to represent the South Shore of Lake Tahoe and receive recognition in this way — it’s a beautiful boost for our year-round destination.”
Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of VisitCalifornia.com, agreed, noting that Apple’s earlier operating systems also used the names of striking Golden State destinations.
“From Yosemite and Mojave to Catalina, Big Sur, Sonoma and more — it’s clear that Apple continues to draw inspiration from its home state, choosing some of California’s most scenic places year after year for its operating system names,” Beteta told CNET. “Crystal clear, blue and encircled by majestic peaks, it’s no surprise Apple chose Lake Tahoe for the newest operating system, bringing a glimpse of California’s alpine playground to the world.”
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