Apple is currently under fire for its macOS 26 operating system, as users are praising the company’s hardware while expressing concerns about the direction of its software. In a yearly survey conducted by technology writer Jason Shell, which gathers feedback from numerous influential voices in the industry, Apple’s Mac computers received high marks for performance and reliability. However, the latest macOS update received notably negative reviews, showcasing a growing dissatisfaction among longtime users and enthusiasts.
The survey, known as Six Colors panel, includes input from editors, developers, and podcasters like Chance Miller. Participants rate Apple across various categories, scoring them on a scale of one to five. While hardware reliability received an impressive average score of 4.5, the overall quality of the operating system fell short at 2.7, highlighting a significant disparity.
Many of the survey participants praised Apple’s Mac lineup powered by Apple Silicon, commending machines like the MacBook Pro for their speed, efficiency, and seamless daily performance. Features such as extended battery life, quiet operation, and vibrant displays were particularly lauded. On the other hand, macOS 26 faced severe criticism, with veteran reviewer John Siracusa from Ars Technica pointing out poorly executed interface changes that deviate from established usability principles.
Despite some positive feedback regarding the reliability of macOS 26 in everyday tasks and improvements to tools like Spotlight and Shortcuts, the majority of reviewers expressed frustration with the update. Criticisms included visual inconsistencies, noticeable bugs, and issues that had been previously resolved but resurfaced in the latest build. These shortcomings have led many users to question the overall software oversight and quality control at Apple.
While not all reviews were negative, with some users acknowledging the operating system’s reliability for daily tasks, the general consensus among critics is one of disappointment with macOS 26. Christina Warren from Mashable even stated that she would avoid installing the update if not necessary for work. This divide in opinions underscores the mixed reception towards Apple’s latest software release.
In conclusion, despite the commendable hardware performance of Apple’s Mac computers, the backlash against macOS 26 in the recent annual report highlights the company’s struggle to meet user expectations in terms of software quality. The concerns raised by prominent reviewers suggest that Apple may need to reevaluate its approach to software development and address the issues that have led to widespread dissatisfaction among its loyal user base.