In March of last year, Apple rolled out a new in-store system, codenamed “Presto,” that updated iPhones to the latest available version of iOS, while they were still in the box. Now, AppleInsider reports that the latest beta of macOS Tahoe 26 contains code that indicates the Cupertino company is working on a similar in-box update process for the Mac.
Presto ensured that a customer’s new iPhone was running the latest available version of iOS eight out of the box, no matter how long the device had been sitting on store shelves.
macOS Tahoe 26 beta 3 indicates Apple’s is working on a system for stores’ Mac inventory to keep them updated while sitting in the storeroom, meaning they will not require an update when first setting them up. This could alao allow Apple to meet tight rollout schedules with new Macs, allowing them to ship new Macs first, then install the latest version of macOS on them when everything is ready to be rolled out to customers.
Apple’s “Presto” system wirelessly turns on the iPhones inside the box, updates its software to the latest available version, and then powers it off.
The Presto is a device that includes small lockers that can hold up to six iPhone boxes at once. Markings on the device ensure that the boxes are correctly positioned, depending on their size. Once correctly positioned in the locker, the iPhone will be updated within 15 to 30 minutes.
Presto was developed by Apple’s Backstage Operations team, which develops tools for Apple technicians and retail store employees. The system eliminates the need for an iPhone buyer to update the device’s software immediately after taking it out of the box.
This helps the company avoid situations like happened in 2023, when the iPhone 15 shipped with iOS 17 but Apple released iOS 17.0.1 before the devices hit stores. The update fixed an issue that prevented the transfer of data directly from another iPhone during the initial setup process.
The process may be a bit different when it comes to updating Macs, as the iPhone update system relies on the iPhone’s built-in NFC chip to initiate the update process. The current Mac lineup is not equipped with an NFC chip, as far as anyone knows.
