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macOS 26 Beta Hints at Sealed-Box Wireless Updates for Mac Computers

The finding highlights Apple’s push to ship Macs with the newest software out of the box; activation methods and rollout timing remain unknown.

The culprit.
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Overview

  • The third beta of macOS Tahoe 26 contains code artifacts that indicate Apple is developing a sealed-device update system for Macs modeled on its iPhone Presto technology.
  • On iPhones, Presto uses a proprietary Mac mini–controlled ‘two-slot toaster’ and NFC signals to update sealed boxes without opening them.
  • Current Macs lack NFC hardware; Apple would need to add NFC in future models or use Bluetooth to initiate wireless updates.
  • Implementing Presto for Macs could ensure new machines ship preloaded with the latest macOS and prevent setup failures linked to day-one patches.
  • Apple has not announced a rollout schedule for sealed-box Mac updates; logistics and activation methods remain unresolved.