# macOS Tahoe: iPadOS-Influenced Modifications
Much has been discussed regarding iPadOS 26 delivering numerous robust Mac-like features to the iPad. While this is accurate, the exchange is also reciprocal. Apple has a variety of iPad-inspired modifications set to debut on the Mac with macOS Tahoe. Here’s what’s new.
## macOS Tahoe Introduces Various iPadOS-Influenced Modifications
Mac users might not be thrilled about macOS Tahoe adopting features from the iPad. However, Apple’s aim with this year’s software advancements is to enhance cross-platform unity, not only through the Liquid Glass design but also in features. While maintaining the uniqueness of each platform, Apple has worked diligently to minimize the disparities in its operating systems. Here are several ways the Mac becomes more iPad-like in macOS Tahoe.
## Control Center Overhaul
Last year, the iPad and iPhone underwent significant Control Center enhancements that incorporated numerous controls from both first and third parties. In macOS Tahoe, these modifications are also reaching the Mac.
New features consist of:
– Completely new system controls with expanded functionalities
– Resizable controls, allowing for personalized setups
– Rearrangement options as another customization method
– Menu bar support for any control you wish to have readily available
– Third-party controls through a new API
## Automation in Shortcuts
The Shortcuts app has been a part of the Mac for several years, yet it has always had one significant shortcoming: automations. This was likely because macOS already possessed its own distinct automation tools. However, in macOS Tahoe, Apple introduces iPad-like Shortcuts automations to the Mac.
The refreshed Shortcuts app in macOS Tahoe features automation possibilities based on triggers such as saving a file to a folder, connecting to an external display, at predefined times, and more.
## Changes to App Icons
This might stir some debate, but macOS Tahoe incorporates iPad-like alterations to app icons as well. The era of app icons having distinct shapes has ended, as macOS now adopts the standard squircle shape seen on iPhone and iPad.
There’s an advantage to this modification, as icons will now accommodate light and dark theming along with icon tinting, including the new ‘Clear’ Liquid Glass appearance.
## Launchpad Transforms to Resemble the App Library
If you frequently use Launchpad, macOS Tahoe will necessitate some adjustment. Launchpad has been removed from the system, replaced in the Mac’s dock with a new application browser akin to the App Library on iPad and iPhone.
Similar to the App Library, the new Apps screen initially presents a list of recommended applications, followed by a categorization of apps sorted automatically into various groups. Spotlight will continue to be a quicker method to launch apps, but if your Mac houses many applications, the new browser should make locating them more straightforward.
## Summary of macOS Tahoe’s iPad-Inspired Changes
Undoubtedly, the Mac’s iPad-inspired modifications this year are not as numerous or impactful as the iPad’s Mac-inspired updates. Still, macOS Tahoe does enhance the Mac to resemble Apple’s two most popular platforms—iPhone and iPad—in manners that should make it more accessible to new users than before. And hopefully, long-time Mac users will also discover much to appreciate.
What are your thoughts on macOS Tahoe’s iPad-inspired changes? Share your opinions in the comments.
