Apple is poised to launch Live Activities on the Mac with the forthcoming release of macOS Tahoe 26 this autumn. A crucial point for users is that there is no need to upgrade your iPhone to iOS 26 for this functionality to operate.
As per details revealed during Apple’s WWDC25 session entitled “What’s new in widgets,” Live Activities from a connected iPhone will be available in the macOS menu bar, as long as the iPhone operates on iOS 18 or newer. This implies that users can reap the advantages of Live Activities without requiring an update to the latest iOS or installing further app upgrades.
### How will Mac Live Activities function?
The operation is akin to that of the iPhone’s Dynamic Island, where a simplified incarnation of the Live Activity will surface in the Mac’s menu bar. Users can click on this icon to unveil an expanded view that mirrors what is displayed on the iPhone’s Lock Screen.
Choosing the expanded view will trigger iPhone Mirroring, enabling users to smoothly transition into the native app active on their iPhone directly from their Mac. This integration is designed to function automatically with any pre-existing Live Activity-enabled apps, indicating that developers do not need to amend any code for compatibility.
Apple further elaborates on this feature, mentioning that Live Activities from a paired iPhone will be present in macOS Tahoe. For example, a coffee order tracker Live Activity will show both the leading and trailing views in the menu bar. When users tap the Live Activity, the Lock Screen display from the iPhone will materialize, and clicking on it will initiate the corresponding app through iPhone Mirroring. This feature allows for interaction and deep links, much like how iPhone widgets operate on macOS.
In conclusion, if you intend to upgrade your Mac to macOS Tahoe 26 but are unable to upgrade to iOS 26 on your iPhone, you can still utilize Live Activities as long as your iPhone is running iOS 18 or above.
