Apple doubled Wi-Fi bandwidth for select Macs and iPads through recent operating system updates. The macOS Tahoe 26.2 and iPadOS 26.2 releases enable 160MHz maximum channel bandwidth on 5GHz networks for Wi-Fi 6E devices, up from the previous 80MHz limit.
The bandwidth increase affects M4 iPad Pro models, M3 iPad Air, A17 Pro iPad mini, M2 to M5 MacBook Pro models, and M3 and M4 MacBook Air models. These devices now match the theoretical maximum throughput previously exclusive to 6GHz networks when connected to compatible 5GHz routers.
Users with Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E routers supporting 160MHz on 5GHz networks will see faster file transfers, quicker uploads, and smoother streaming. The improvement brings 5GHz performance closer to 6GHz peak speeds without requiring newer 6GHz router hardware.
Apple updated Wi-Fi specifications in its platform deployment guide to reflect the changes. The bandwidth boost applies only to routers supporting 160MHz channels on 5GHz networks. Devices connected to routers limited to 80MHz will not see performance improvements.
Wi-Fi 6E devices can access 6GHz networks, but 5GHz remains more common in consumer environments. Six-gigahertz networks require both new router hardware and compatible devices, while the 5GHz bandwidth enhancement works with existing infrastructure.
The bandwidth increase represents a significant performance upgrade for Apple's latest hardware. M-series Macs and recent iPad models gain improved wireless connectivity through software updates rather than requiring new hardware purchases.
Apple delivered the Wi-Fi improvements alongside security updates in the macOS Tahoe 26.2 and iPadOS 26.2 releases. The company typically includes performance enhancements in minor operating system updates throughout the year.
The bandwidth doubling follows Apple's pattern of optimizing wireless performance across its ecosystem. Previous updates have improved Bluetooth connectivity, AirDrop reliability, and network handoff between devices.
Wi-Fi 6E adoption continues growing as more devices and routers support the standard. Apple's bandwidth enhancement makes existing 5GHz infrastructure more competitive with emerging 6GHz networks for compatible devices.
Users should update to macOS Tahoe 26.2 or iPadOS 26.2 to access the bandwidth improvements. Router compatibility remains essential, as the enhancement requires 160MHz channel support on 5GHz networks. This follows similar Wi-Fi improvements Apple has made in recent updates.
