Apple has unveiled the second beta version of macOS 26.2, arriving alongside the iOS 26.2 beta. Among the most talked-about updates is the innovative Edge Light feature, designed to redefine your video call experience on FaceTime and popular third-party platforms. This new addition brings a virtual ring-light effect that softly illuminates your face by adding a glowing edge around your Mac’s screen.
The Edge Light capability aims to help users look their best during calls, especially in low-light settings. Instead of relying on external light sources, the Mac intelligently creates a soft halo of light that adapts in real time to ambient brightness. Apple’s Neural Engine analyzes your face, height, and on-screen position to adjust the lighting angle and intensity, ensuring a natural yet balanced appearance.
How the Edge Light System Works
This feature essentially acts as a built-in, digital ring light. It enhances visibility in dim environments and automatically fine-tunes its brightness based on room illumination. Edge Light even tracks your mouse movements and subtly changes hue or brightness when necessary, maintaining both clarity and comfort during extended sessions. Users can choose between warm and cool tones to complement their preferred aesthetic or lighting conditions.
Accessing the feature is seamless. Within macOS 26.2’s expanded video options menu—alongside tools like Portrait mode, Studio Light, and Background effects—you’ll find a simple toggle to activate Edge Light. The update ensures broad compatibility across numerous platforms, including FaceTime, Zoom, and WebEx, offering consistent video quality no matter which app you use.
Compatible Mac Models and Availability
The Edge Light feature will be available on all Macs powered by Apple Silicon processors and also works flawlessly with external cameras and Studio Display setups. Moreover, any Mac model released in or after 2024 can automatically enable Edge Light when ambient lighting is detected to be too dim. This smart automation makes it effortless to always appear well-lit without manual adjustments.
With macOS 26.2, Apple continues to blur the lines between hardware innovation and software intelligence, turning everyday video calls into a more polished and professional experience.





