Apple’s most powerful desktop cannot install latest version of macOS

Key Takeaways:

• The Mac Studio with M3 Ultra chip cannot install macOS 26 Tahoe
• Multiple users have encountered this installation failure
• A suspected bug in the neural engine is the likely culprit
• macOS 26 Tahoe is Apple’s latest operating system
• The issue has been reported by NotebookCheck and attributed to writer Sam Medley

The Glitch Affecting M3 Ultra Machines

Apple’s Mac Studio, featuring the M3 Ultra chip, has become the subject of growing frustration among users. Despite its reputation as Apple’s most powerful desktop, it appears unable to install macOS 26 Tahoe—the newest release of Apple’s operating system. According to several user reports, the installation process stalls or fails outright.

Neural Engine Recognition Bug

Early indications suggest that the underlying problem may stem from how the system recognizes the desktop’s neural engine. This central processing component is typically responsible for machine learning tasks, but it may be causing the upgrade to misfire. One theory proposes that the macOS installer cannot properly detect or validate the neural engine, ultimately blocking the update.

User Experiences and Reports

Those who have attempted the upgrade describe encountering unexpected errors without clear explanations. Although exact numbers remain unclear, multiple postings have surfaced online. Some owners of the M3 Ultra-based desktop state they have tried workarounds, but none have succeeded in completing the install.

Possible Resolutions and Future Steps

So far, there is no official word on when or how the issue might be resolved. The discovery that Apple’s flagship machine may not run its own brand-new operating system is a significant stumbling block for users who rely on the latest software for optimal performance. While no immediate fix has been confirmed, Mac Studio owners are closely watching for further updates from Apple.