Software Update says your Mac is up to date, but there's a newer version

Why it happens

Software Update only offers versions your Mac can run, so an older Mac may never see the newest macOS. A beta setting can also change what you're offered. And sometimes the check simply ran before the update reached you, so a fresh check is all it takes.

How to fix it

1. Open the Apple menu, choose System Settings, click General, then Software Update.

   General›Software Update

2. Wait for the check to finish, then press Command-R to make your Mac check again. Read the whole page: a newer macOS can be listed separately, below the usual updates for your current version.

3. Click the ⓘ next to Beta Updates. If a beta is chosen, you get beta versions instead of the normal releases. Choose Off to go back to public updates. Turning it off doesn't remove a beta you already have; you move on at the next public release.

4. Check your Mac can run the new version. Open General > About to see your Mac's model and chip, then compare it with Apple's list of supported Macs for that macOS version on Apple's website.

   General›About

macOS 27 runs only on Macs with Apple silicon (M1 or later). Intel Macs stay on macOS 26 Tahoe and keep getting its security updates through Software Update, so on an Intel Mac macOS 27 never appears.

Still not fixed?

1. If Software Update says it can't check, or nothing loads, make sure the internet works, turn off any VPN, and check that Set time and date automatically is on in Date & Time. Then check again.

   General›Date & Time

2. Is your Mac from work or school? Its managers can hold back updates for a while. Ask them when the new version will be allowed.

3. If the new version only came out today, restart your Mac and check again a little later.

4. If your Mac is on Apple's supported list, isn't managed, and the update still hasn't appeared after a few days, contact Apple Support.