Apple Replaces Icon in New macOS Beta
Introduction
The latest beta version of macOS Tahoe 26 is making a big change to the user interface - the old Macintosh HD icon is being retired. This iconic image has been a familiar sight for years, but Apple is now replacing it with a new, more modern-looking SSD icon. This change is set to bring the user experience into the present and better reflect the current technology used in Mac computers.
Key Details
The old Macintosh HD icon depicted a traditional hard disk drive, which is no longer the standard in modern Mac computers. As more and more people switch to SSDs for their faster speeds and smaller size, it only makes sense for Apple to update the icon to reflect this change. This shift also aligns with Apple's push towards a more sustainable future, as SSDs are more environmentally friendly than traditional hard drives.
Impact
The retirement of the old Macintosh HD icon is a testament to Apple's commitment to continuously improve and evolve their products. The new SSD icon is not just a cosmetic change, it also represents a shift towards a more efficient and sustainable future. This change also highlights the importance of keeping up with technology and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the tech industry. As the beta version of macOS Tahoe 26 continues to roll out, users can look forward to a more modern and relevant user interface.
About the Organizations Mentioned
Apple
Apple Inc. is a leading American multinational technology company known for pioneering personal computing, mobile devices, and software ecosystems. Founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, Apple revolutionized technology with the first commercially successful personal computer and mainstream adoption of the graphical user interface (GUI), setting new standards in product design, user experience, and seamless integration across devices[2]. Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Apple’s product lineup includes the iPhone, iPad, Mac computers, Apple Watch, AirPods, and services such as the App Store, Apple Music, and iCloud. The company has built a vast ecosystem that enables third-party developers to expand product functionalities, strengthening its market dominance. Apple is widely recognized for its innovation in hardware, software, and services, with an emphasis on aesthetics and privacy. In 2025, Apple committed to its largest-ever investment initiative, pledging $600 billion over four years in the United States to boost manufacturing, research and development, and advanced technology sectors like artificial intelligence (AI) and silicon engineering[1][3]. This includes new manufacturing facilities, expanded R&D centers, and a program called the American Manufacturing Program (AMP) to encourage domestic production of critical components. These efforts support over 450,000 U.S. jobs and aim to establish a robust supply chain within the country[3]. Financially, Apple remains a powerhouse with a market capitalization of $3.84 trillion and annual revenue exceeding $400 billion. However, in 2025, it faced challenges including a 19% decline in stock value, intensified regulatory scrutiny from the U.S. Department of Justice over antitrust issues, legal disputes related to the App Store, and competitive pressure in AI technology[1][2]. Despite these hurdles, Apple continues to innovate, recently updating its software platforms with a unified "Liquid Glass" design and expanding its AI-driven personal assistant, Apple Intelligence[1]. Under CEO Tim Cook’s leadership, Apple balances technological advancement
