Many Mac users recently updated to macOS Tahoe 26.0.1, hoping bug fixes and performance tweaks would improve their experience. Instead, a frustrating problem has emerged: third-party Bluetooth devices (keyboards, mice, etc.) fail to connect right after boot. Interestingly, users report that once they log in using a wired connection or USB dongle, Bluetooth reconnects and works normally. Meanwhile, Apple’s own Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse seem unaffected.
If you’re facing this issue, you’re not alone — here’s a step-by-step guide to diagnosing and possibly fixing Bluetooth issues with third-party peripherals on macOS 26.0.1.
Possible Causes
- A change in macOS Bluetooth initialization at the login screen may block third-party devices until the user session starts.
- FileVault encryption is interfering with pre-login hardware access (some users report that turning off FileVault helps)
- A compatibility glitch introduced in the 26.0.1 update is interfering with non-Apple Bluetooth stacks.
- Bluetooth firmware or macOS driver layers that need refreshing or resetting.
How to Fix the Issue
1. Use a Wired or 2.4GHz Dongle to Log In
If your Mac won’t accept the keyboard or mouse over Bluetooth at the login screen, use a USB-connected keyboard or a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle. Once you’re logged in, your Bluetooth devices might re-pair automatically.
Hint: Keep a wired backup around for such boot-time issues.
2. Turn Off FileVault Encryption (Test Only)
Some users found that disabling FileVault encryption stops the pre-login Bluetooth restriction.
- Go to System Settings → Privacy & Security → FileVault
- Turn it off (this decrypts your disk)
Caution: This weakens security, so try only temporarily and re-enable if it doesn’t help.
3. Reset Bluetooth Module
Resetting the Bluetooth subsystem can sometimes restore functionality:
- Hold Shift + Option and click the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar (if visible).
- Choose “Reset Bluetooth Module” or “Factory Reset Bluetooth.”
- Reboot your Mac.
4. Remove and Re-Pair Devices
After login, open System Settings → Bluetooth, remove your peripheral, then re-add it. This forces a fresh handshake and may resolve configuration issues.
5. Update macOS & Device Firmware
Make sure your Mac is fully updated — Apple’s release notes mention fixes to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi issues in macOS 26.0.1.
Also, check if your keyboard or mouse has firmware updates (via manufacturer or companion app).
6. Submit Apple Feedback / Bug Report
If none of the above work, it’s likely a regression introduced by macOS Tahoe. Submit feedback to Apple via Feedback Assistant or Apple’s Product Feedback page and mention the specific 26.0.1 Bluetooth issue with third-party devices. Many affected users in the Apple Forums have already raised this.
Conclusion
The Bluetooth issue in macOS 26.0.1 is annoying, especially when it prevents you from using your preferred devices at boot. But using a wired fallback to log in, resetting Bluetooth, toggling FileVault, or updating firmware may help in the meantime. With user reports mounting, most expect Apple to address this in a future 26.1 update.
