Apple Adds Charge Limit to MacBooks in macOS Beta

Apple has unveiled a new Charge Limit feature for MacBooks in the latest beta version of macOS Tahoe 26.4, allowing users to cap their device's battery charge at levels between 80 percent and 100 percent to extend battery lifespan.

The feature, spotted in the first developer beta released on Monday, gives Mac users greater control over charging habits, particularly for those who keep their laptops plugged in for extended periods. Unlike the existing Optimized Battery Charging option, which uses machine learning to delay charging past 80 percent based on predicted usage patterns, Charge Limit enforces a fixed upper threshold. Once set, the MacBook will halt charging at the chosen level, such as 85 percent or 95 percent, in five percent increments, rather than automatically reaching full capacity. Apple notes that the device may occasionally charge to 100 percent to calibrate battery health estimates accurately.

To enable Charge Limit, users navigate to the System Settings app, select the Battery section, and click the information icon next to the Charging option. A slider there allows for easy adjustments. The beta also integrates the feature into the built-in Shortcuts app,...