Apple’s iPadOS 26.2 and macOS 26.2 Updates Unlock Enhanced Wi-Fi Performance
Apple’s recent release of iPadOS 26.2 and macOS Tahoe 26.2 has introduced a significant enhancement in Wi-Fi capabilities for select Mac and iPad models. This update increases the maximum channel bandwidth for Wi-Fi 6E devices connected to 5GHz networks from 80MHz to 160MHz, effectively doubling the potential data throughput.
This improvement allows Wi-Fi 6E-enabled devices to achieve speeds nearing those of 6GHz networks without the necessity of connecting to a 6GHz band. Users with Wi-Fi 6 or 6E setups that support 160MHz on 5GHz networks can now experience faster Wi-Fi speeds, enhanced file transfers, and more efficient large uploads and downloads.
The devices benefiting from this update include:
– MacBook Air models introduced in 2024 or later
– MacBook Pro models introduced in 2023 or later
– iMac models introduced in 2023 or later
– Mac mini models introduced in 2023 or later
– Mac Studio models introduced in 2023 or later
– Mac Pro models introduced in 2023 or later
– iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation), or later
– iPad Air 11-inch (M2), iPad Air 13-inch (M2), or later
– iPad mini (A17 Pro) or later
To take advantage of this enhancement, users should ensure their devices are updated to iPadOS 26.2 or macOS 26.2 and are connected to a compatible Wi-Fi 6 or 6E router that supports 160MHz channel bandwidth on the 5GHz band. This update underscores Apple’s commitment to leveraging the latest wireless technologies to provide users with faster and more reliable connectivity.
