Cmd + Tab not showing active window in macOS Tahoe 26.3

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Level 1

8 points

Cmd + Tab not showing active window in macOS Tahoe 26.3

I upgraded to macOS Tahoe ver. 26.3 this morning. Now, when I use the keys Cmd Tab to move from one app to another, the app does not automatically show the current window. For example, If I Cmd tab from Safari to Finder, I can see Finder on the top bar, but the Safari screen is in the background. To get to the Finder window, I have to click on Window on the Preview menu, and then click on the the window I want to use.

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 26.3

Posted on Mar 4, 2026 9:54 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

neuroanatomist

Level 9

56,757 points

Mar 4, 2026 10:01 AM in response to jomoncon

This is normal behavior for the App Switcher (Command-Tab), and was under Sequoia, as well, IF you have no open windows in the app that you select. If there are open windows in the selected app, the last-accessed one of those becomes active.

You can confirm this by opening a new window in Finder (or open any folder), then switch to Safari. Now, when you switch to Finder that window/folder will be 'in front'. Same applies to any other app.

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Answer 2

Mar 4, 2026 10:28 AM in response to neuroanatomist

Also, if you use multiple Spaces (Desktops) then you will likely want to enable this toggle in System Settings > Desktop & Dock, under Mission Control:

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Answer 3

jomoncon Author

Level 1

8 points

Mar 4, 2026 3:31 PM in response to neuroanatomist

I do have an open window in the selected app. The last accessed window does not become active. That window is not in front.

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Answer 4

jomoncon Author

Level 1

8 points

Mar 4, 2026 3:34 PM in response to neuroanatomist

Your second answer about the System Settings > Desktop & Dock, was the answer. For whatever reason, that section was not turned on. Now it works. Thanks so very much.

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