Apple releases macOS Tahoe 26.2 with new Edge Light feature

Apple has launched macOS Tahoe 26.2, marking the second significant update to its operating system just five weeks after the previous version. Mac users can now download this update through the Software Update section in System Settings. A standout feature of macOS Tahoe 26.2 is Edge Light, an innovative video effect aimed at enhancing user visibility during video calls in dimly lit settings. This feature utilizes the Mac's display to gently illuminate the user's face, simulating the effect of a virtual ring light without requiring any extra hardware. Users have the flexibility to adjust both the width and color temperature of the light, allowing for personalized control over brightness and warmth. Additionally, macOS Tahoe 26.2 introduces mouse awareness functionality, which causes the lit area to recede when the cursor is moved, ensuring that on-screen content remains visible. For Mac models released in 2024 or later, Edge Light can automatically activate when a video call starts in low-light conditions. Beyond enhancements for video calls, this update brings a range of improvements to core apps. The Podcasts app now features automatically generated chapters, simplifying navigation for longer episodes. Users can also easily tap on links to podcasts mentioned during episodes, facilitating quick exploration and follow-ups directly from the player or transcript. The gaming experience has been enriched as well, with new filters in the Games library enabling users to sort titles by various criteria such as category and size. Real-time score banners in games now display when a new leader emerges, and support for connected controllers has seen improvements. In addition to these highlights, the update includes numerous system enhancements and bug fixes. AirDrop now requires verification codes when sharing files with unknown contacts, adding an extra layer of security. Apple News has improved navigation with section links in the sidebar for topics like Sports, Politics, Business, and Food. Meanwhile, Freeform has added support for tables that can accommodate text, images, documents, and drawings with dynamically resizing cells. The Edge Light feature is compatible with Macs that have Apple silicon and are running macOS Tahoe 26.2 or later. The automatic activation in low-light conditions is available on newer Mac models introduced in 2024 or later, and it works seamlessly with built-in, Continuity, or supported external cameras.