MacOS Tahoe brings one of the biggest innovations ever for the Mac control panel. The update draws the Control Center for all devices and adds more options.
Of course, the control panel is now designed in the new Liquid Glass design with glassy buttons, subtle effects and color expenses. As a user you have more options for better matching the Control Center with your way of working. This way you can adjust all regulators and place them in a different place.
Renewed interface for control panel
From macOS 26 you can use the renewed interface for the Control Center. This has round shapes and fits better with the new Liquid Glass design that Apple uses from now on. Via the control panel you have quick access to various settings, functions and apps.
You probably use the panel the most for adjusting system settings. Unlike iOS and iPados, the control panel on the Mac consists of one page with direct access to the most important settings. Users can easily add extra controllers, also from third -party apps. If desired, you can create multiple panels that can open separately from the menu bar.
Open control center
Just like in previous versions of macOS, you can quickly open the control panel by in the menu bar to click on the control panel symbol (two switches).
Adjust control panel
Personalizing and adjusting the control panel is very easy and immediately from the panel itself. You also get to see all the controllers and possibilities, so that you immediately have an impression of how the panel ultimately takes shape.
- Open the control panel
- Keeps the command⌘ pressed key to move regulators
- Or click on ‘Change regulators’ at the bottom of the panel
- Drag (new) parts to another place
As soon as you activate the processing mode, you will see an overview next to the Control Center. In the overview you will find all available controllers, including a preview of the information that a shortcut can display. Here you will not only find Apple regulators, but also Quick couplings of other apps.
Adjust format regulators
With some regulators you can adjust the format. Click on the controller with a secondary click (right mouse button) and adjust the size. This way you can display a shortcut, normal or small.
Create multiple groups
From macOS 26 it is possible to create multiple control panels that you can organize as a user yourself. Apple calls it groups that you can consult from the menu bar. You can then consult all these loose control panels from the menu bar.
- Open the control panel
- Activate the processing mode via ‘Change regulators’
- Click on the plus button in the menu bar
- A new control panel (symbol with four circles) is opened
- Choose a desired symbol
- Add the desired controllers
In this way you can create a separate page for music control or automation. Or the most important controllers for certain activities and apps. This way you have all the freedom to operate your Mac quickly and easily.
Add regulators to menu bar
Do you want to access a regulator even faster? Then from now on you can place it directly in the menu bar. This ensures that your favorite functions are always within reach, without having to open the control panel.
- Open the control panel
- Activate the processing mode via ‘Change regulators’
- In the overview, go to the regulator you want to add
- Click on the plus button
- Choose ‘Add to menu bar’
In addition, you can also drag parts directly from the control panel to the menu bar to place it in it.
Add iPhone controllers
Not available in the EU
In countries where synchronous iPhone display (iPhone mirroring) is available, you can use controllers of your iPhone directly in the macOS control panel. This makes collaboration between Mac and iPhone even more seamless. Unfortunately, this function is not yet available in the EU.