- Apple could work on a system to update the Macs while they are still in a box
- This is based on clues in the latest beta developer of MacOS 26
- Such a system is already used with iPhones, although it is not clear how Apple would make it work with Mac
Apple Macs could leave the shelf with an entirely up -to -date installation on board in the future, preventing any need for an update of the buyer’s day, if clues in the latest beta developer are an indication.
9 to 5 Mac reports that the MacOS Tahoe 26 Beta 3 contains the basic work (initial references and code) for such a system, which is already in place for the iPhone.
It is called Presto and it allows boxes in box to be updated to the latest version of iOS by retailers – without removing the equipment from its sealed package – if the devices need an update beyond the version of the operating system with which they have shipped.
This prevents the customer with the trouble to apply an update as soon as the door is released, which is incredibly practical.
Presto equipment itself is a rack with six bays which can have six iPhones placed inside. He uses wireless technologies to turn on phones, update them, then turn them off. (Magsafe and NFC to light the devices, by all accounts, and Wi-Fi to kill the actual update.)
Analysis: Intelligent boxing
If the Macs will benefit from having completely up-to-date software when brought home by the buyer, this raises the question: how will Apple succeed with laptops and PCs? The system may have to operate very differently for greater equipment, and Macs do not have NFC either – it is therefore not clear how the sealed PC could be triggered to light up in its box (and again thereafter).
9TO5MAC suggests that Apple could perhaps add NFC to its macOS devices, or perhaps a different mixture of wireless technology could be used with Macs. Anyway, it is not clear how Apple would realize this as it does with iPhones, but it may require a substantially different rotation of the concept.
In addition, it is not because a potential feature is identified in the background of beta software that this will materialize. That said, the presence of the code here indicates that it is at least something that Apple seriously considers – look at this space, I suppose.
