Apple releases MacOS Tahoe-26.1
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MacOS TAHOE review-Should you update Liquid-Glass?

Apple TAHOE reviews

Quick recap

The meeting addressed technical difficulties with sound issues and discussed plans for the final meeting of 2025 and initiatives for 2026, including a shift to online help sessions and new services. Bruce demonstrated various macOS features and tools, including AI avatars for presentations and the new Phone app for cellular calls, while Gerry shared insights on macOS updates and maintenance. The group discussed upcoming events like the holiday party and membership renewals, with members sharing experiences and advice on using new macOS features and troubleshooting potential issues.

Next steps

Summary

2025-2026 Initiatives Planning Meeting

The meeting experienced technical difficulties with sound issues, which were partially resolved by adjusting microphone settings and muting participants. The group discussed plans for their final meeting of 2025 and the start of new initiatives for 2026, including a shift from in-person to online help sessions using Zoom’s breakout meetings feature. Gerry announced that members would be included in new services and processes, aiming to provide more transparency about the group’s operations.

Club Updates and Holiday Planning

The meeting covered several key topics. Cassie explained the process for one-on-one help sessions using Zoom breakout rooms. The group discussed plans for their holiday party meeting in December, with a survey being sent out to determine member preferences for in-person, Zoom, or hybrid gatherings. Bruce Mitchell, a dual member of MacTechnics and TVAUG, will present on macOS Ventura features. The group also mentioned upcoming membership renewal requests and the need for donations to cover club expenses.

MacOS Tahoe Update and Tips

Gerry shared several documents and links related to macOS Tahoe, including reviews and troubleshooting guides. He emphasized the importance of cleaning up the Mac using ONYX and Disk First Aid before updating to Tahoe, and recommended backing up the main drive using Time Machine or other cloning tools. Gerry also mentioned experiencing some application freezes on his M1 chip MacBook Pro after updating to Tahoe, and advised attendees to save the shared documents for reference.

AI Avatars for macOS Training

Bruce demonstrated a new approach to presentations using AI avatars, particularly for teaching macOS features to visually impaired users. He showed a 7-minute video presentation featuring an avatar named Marika who explains four key features of macOS 26, including Spotlight, Clipboard, Menu Bar, and the Apps app. Bruce explained the process of creating these presentations, which involves converting Keynote slides to PDF and using the HeyGen web-based software to generate the avatar voiceover. The presentations are intended to be more engaging than traditional text-based instructions, with Bruce noting that they can serve as conversation starters before diving into more detailed technical discussions.

AI Video and macOS Updates

Bruce demonstrated creating a video for the Vision Awareness Expo using AI voice technology and discussed the use of QR codes and NaviLens for accessibility. The group discussed the new “AppSapp” feature in macOS Tahoe, which allows quick access to all installed apps, and Keith inquired about the format of output files. Bruce also mentioned that FileVault encryption is enabled by default in Tahoe, advising caution with the 32-digit recovery key.

New macOS App Launcher Overview

Bruce demonstrated the new App Launcher in macOS, showing how it replaces the previous Launchpad feature and provides access to applications through a grid or list view. He explained that the App Launcher includes predefined categories and allows users to search for applications, access system-level commands through Actions, and use Spotlight search. The discussion highlighted some user interface changes and potential confusion points, such as the location of the Spotlight icon and the redundancy between menu bar items and Spotlight search.

AI Tools for Content Creation

Bruce demonstrated 11 Labs, a voice AI tool, showcasing its text-to-speech capabilities and ability to generate dialogues. He explained how he uses the tool for various projects, including creating content for visually impaired groups. Brian encountered compatibility issues with Safari on an older Mac OS, suggesting alternative browsers like Brave or Firefox as solutions. The group discussed the potential of AI tools for content creation, with Bruce highlighting the efficiency and creativity AI can bring to tasks like generating iOS app descriptions.

MacOS Updates and Performance Challenges

Gerry discussed the recent updates to macOS, highlighting the rapid release of version 26.1 within two weeks of 26.0, which addressed several issues. He noted that while Tahoe has improved efficiency and speed, especially for older M1 chips, he experiences frequent freezes due to running multiple legacy applications and high memory usage. Gerry emphasized the importance of using system utilities like Onyx for maintenance and suggested detaching devices during restarts to prevent interference. He also mentioned that Apple-developed applications perform well under Tahoe, while third-party software, such as Microsoft and Adobe, may cause issues.

Mac Phone App Demo Overview

Bruce demonstrated the new Phone app in macOS Ventura, showcasing its features for making and receiving cellular calls from a Mac using an iPhone’s connection. He explained the setup requirements, including having both devices on the same Wi-Fi network and Apple account, and highlighted advanced features like call screening, live voicemail, and real-time translation. The discussion also touched on the potential impact on iPhone revenue if Apple were to develop a standalone phone app, with Bruce noting that such a move would likely not be wise.

Macs for Calls and Encryption

Bruce discussed the benefits of using Macs for phone calls, highlighting features like hands-free operation, better audio quality, and the ability to switch between audio and video calls. He shared personal examples, such as assisting a visually impaired wife and recording guest speakers at meetings for later review. Gerry and Keith asked questions about using macOS 13 Ventura (Tahoe), particularly about FileVault encryption. Bruce and Gerry explained how to turn off FileVault immediately after upgrading to prevent login issues, and Gerry confirmed that users can still log in after disabling it.

Apple Products and macOS Update

The group discussed various topics including cellular carriers, Apple products, and the upcoming macOS update. Bruce shared his experience with U.S. Mobile, a carrier that offers multiple lines at a low cost. The conversation then shifted to the M1 chip’s obsolescence, with Gerry suggesting it may not become obsolete anytime soon due to Apple’s proprietary silicon. The group also discussed the macOS update (OS26), with MacTechnics advising to wait before upgrading due to potential issues. Brian shared his plan to test Tahoe on an external drive before fully committing to it. The conversation ended with a reminder about the upcoming holiday party on December 13th, where remote attendees were encouraged to bring a mug for a group photo.

 

AI can make mistakes. Review for accuracy.

PDF #1  – link to file, consider a description

PDF #2  – link to file, consider a description

PDF #3  – link to file, consider a description

PDF #4  – link to file, consider a description

Quick recap

The meeting addressed technical difficulties with sound issues and discussed plans for the final meeting of 2025 and initiatives for 2026, including a shift to online help sessions and new services. Bruce demonstrated various macOS features and tools, including AI avatars for presentations and the new Phone app for cellular calls, while Gerry shared insights on macOS updates and maintenance. The group discussed upcoming events like the holiday party and membership renewals, with members sharing experiences and advice on using new macOS features and troubleshooting potential issues.

Next steps

Summary

2025-2026 Initiatives Planning Meeting

The meeting experienced technical difficulties with sound issues, which were partially resolved by adjusting microphone settings and muting participants. The group discussed plans for their final meeting of 2025 and the start of new initiatives for 2026, including a shift from in-person to online help sessions using Zoom’s breakout meetings feature. Gerry announced that members would be included in new services and processes, aiming to provide more transparency about the group’s operations.

Club Updates and Holiday Planning

The meeting covered several key topics. Cassie explained the process for one-on-one help sessions using Zoom breakout rooms. The group discussed plans for their holiday party meeting in December, with a survey being sent out to determine member preferences for in-person, Zoom, or hybrid gatherings. Bruce Mitchell, a dual member of MacTechnics and TVAUG, will present on macOS Ventura features. The group also mentioned upcoming membership renewal requests and the need for donations to cover club expenses.

MacOS Tahoe Update and Tips

Gerry shared several documents and links related to macOS Tahoe, including reviews and troubleshooting guides. He emphasized the importance of cleaning up the Mac using ONYX and Disk First Aid before updating to Tahoe, and recommended backing up the main drive using Time Machine or other cloning tools. Gerry also mentioned experiencing some application freezes on his M1 chip MacBook Pro after updating to Tahoe, and advised attendees to save the shared documents for reference.

AI Avatars for macOS Training

Bruce demonstrated a new approach to presentations using AI avatars, particularly for teaching macOS features to visually impaired users. He showed a 7-minute video presentation featuring an avatar named Marika who explains four key features of macOS 26, including Spotlight, Clipboard, Menu Bar, and the Apps app. Bruce explained the process of creating these presentations, which involves converting Keynote slides to PDF and using the HeyGen web-based software to generate the avatar voiceover. The presentations are intended to be more engaging than traditional text-based instructions, with Bruce noting that they can serve as conversation starters before diving into more detailed technical discussions.

AI Video and macOS Updates

Bruce demonstrated creating a video for the Vision Awareness Expo using AI voice technology and discussed the use of QR codes and NaviLens for accessibility. The group discussed the new “AppSapp” feature in macOS Tahoe, which allows quick access to all installed apps, and Keith inquired about the format of output files. Bruce also mentioned that FileVault encryption is enabled by default in Tahoe, advising caution with the 32-digit recovery key.

New macOS App Launcher Overview

Bruce demonstrated the new App Launcher in macOS, showing how it replaces the previous Launchpad feature and provides access to applications through a grid or list view. He explained that the App Launcher includes predefined categories and allows users to search for applications, access system-level commands through Actions, and use Spotlight search. The discussion highlighted some user interface changes and potential confusion points, such as the location of the Spotlight icon and the redundancy between menu bar items and Spotlight search.

AI Tools for Content Creation

Bruce demonstrated 11 Labs, a voice AI tool, showcasing its text-to-speech capabilities and ability to generate dialogues. He explained how he uses the tool for various projects, including creating content for visually impaired groups. Brian encountered compatibility issues with Safari on an older Mac OS, suggesting alternative browsers like Brave or Firefox as solutions. The group discussed the potential of AI tools for content creation, with Bruce highlighting the efficiency and creativity AI can bring to tasks like generating iOS app descriptions.

MacOS Updates and Performance Challenges

Gerry discussed the recent updates to macOS, highlighting the rapid release of version 26.1 within two weeks of 26.0, which addressed several issues. He noted that while Tahoe has improved efficiency and speed, especially for older M1 chips, he experiences frequent freezes due to running multiple legacy applications and high memory usage. Gerry emphasized the importance of using system utilities like Onyx for maintenance and suggested detaching devices during restarts to prevent interference. He also mentioned that Apple-developed applications perform well under Tahoe, while third-party software, such as Microsoft and Adobe, may cause issues.

Mac Phone App Demo Overview

Bruce demonstrated the new Phone app in macOS Ventura, showcasing its features for making and receiving cellular calls from a Mac using an iPhone’s connection. He explained the setup requirements, including having both devices on the same Wi-Fi network and Apple account, and highlighted advanced features like call screening, live voicemail, and real-time translation. The discussion also touched on the potential impact on iPhone revenue if Apple were to develop a standalone phone app, with Bruce noting that such a move would likely not be wise.

Macs for Calls and Encryption

Bruce discussed the benefits of using Macs for phone calls, highlighting features like hands-free operation, better audio quality, and the ability to switch between audio and video calls. He shared personal examples, such as assisting a visually impaired wife and recording guest speakers at meetings for later review. Gerry and Keith asked questions about using macOS 13 Ventura (Tahoe), particularly about FileVault encryption. Bruce and Gerry explained how to turn off FileVault immediately after upgrading to prevent login issues, and Gerry confirmed that users can still log in after disabling it.

Apple Products and macOS Update

The group discussed various topics including cellular carriers, Apple products, and the upcoming macOS update. Bruce shared his experience with U.S. Mobile, a carrier that offers multiple lines at a low cost. The conversation then shifted to the M1 chip’s obsolescence, with Gerry suggesting it may not become obsolete anytime soon due to Apple’s proprietary silicon. The group also discussed the macOS update (OS26), with MacTechnics advising to wait before upgrading due to potential issues. Brian shared his plan to test Tahoe on an external drive before fully committing to it. The conversation ended with a reminder about the upcoming holiday party on December 13th, where remote attendees were encouraged to bring a mug for a group photo.

 

AI can make mistakes. Review for accuracy.

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