Check for macOS updates and install them

Why it happens

Apple sends macOS fixes, security patches and new versions through Software Update. Your Mac checks by itself from time to time, but it doesn't always install straight away. Looking yourself is the quickest way to get the latest version.

How to fix it

1. Back up first if you can, for example with Time Machine. Then plug in the charger, because big updates need power.

2. Open the Apple menu, choose System Settings, click General, then Software Update. Wait while it checks.

   General›Software Update

3. Click Update Now for an update to your current version, or Upgrade Now to move to a new version of macOS. Enter your password if asked and agree to the terms.

4. Leave the Mac plugged in while it downloads and installs. It restarts by itself, and the screen may go black or show a progress bar a few times. That's normal.

5. When you're back at your desktop, open Software Update again. It should say your Mac is up to date.

Still not fixed?

1. Nothing new showing? Press Command-R in Software Update to check again, and look at the ⓘ next to Beta Updates in case your Mac is set to receive test versions.

2. Not enough space? Free some in General > Storage, empty the Trash, then try again. A major upgrade needs many gigabytes free.

   General›Storage

3. macOS 27 needs a Mac with Apple silicon. Check your chip in General > About. Intel Macs stay on macOS 26 Tahoe and keep getting security updates there.

   General›About

4. App Store apps update separately: open the App Store and click Updates in the sidebar.

5. If Software Update shows an error every time, or the update fails after a restart and plenty of free space, contact Apple Support.