Apple’s AI-packed macOS 27 upgrade for Macs launches on September 14, but can it win over macOS Tahoe haters?

Launch and Compatibility

Apple quietly announced that macOS 27 Golden Gate launches on September 14. The free upgrade brings new features and addresses controversial changes from macOS 26 Tahoe. Intel-powered Macs from before 2020 will not receive the update.

Compatible Models

• MacBook Air M1 or later
• MacBook Pro M1 or later
• MacBook Pro 13-inch M1 2020 or later
• MacBook Pro 14-inch M1 Pro 2021 or later
• MacBook Pro 16-inch M1 Pro 2021 or later
• MacBook Neo
• iMac M1 2020 or later
• Mac mini M1 2020 or later
• Mac Studio 2022 and later

New M5 and M6-powered Mac mini and Mac Studio products will likely launch with macOS 27 preinstalled on September 22.

AI Features

• Siri AI: two-way conversations, multi-step task execution, and app interaction such as creating Calendar events and reminders
• Spotlight: AI-powered device search
• Visual Intelligence: on-screen information lookup
• Image Playground: improvements

Fixes and Performance

macOS 27 adjusts macOS 26 Tahoe's controversial Liquid Glass interface, allowing users to tweak transparency effects. During beta testing, contributor Alex Blake was particularly thankful for this change. Apple also promised performance improvements, especially in system responsiveness.

Best Macs and MacBooks

1. Best MacBook overall: MacBook Air 13-inch M5
2. Best budget MacBook: MacBook Neo
3. Best Mac: Mac mini (M4)
4. Best MacBook Pro: MacBook Pro 14-inch M5
5. Best Mac for professionals: Mac Studio M4 Max

Matt is TechRadar's Managing Editor for Core Tech, looking after computing and mobile technology. Having written for a number of publications such as PC Plus, PC Format, T3 and Linux Format, there's no aspect of technology that Matt isn't passionate about, especially computing and PC gaming. He's personally reviewed and used most of the laptops in our best laptops guide - and since joining TechRadar in 2014, he's reviewed over 250 laptops and computing accessories personally.