Is your Mac up to date with the latest version of the Mac operating system? Is it using the version required by some product that you want to use with your Mac? Which versions are earlier (older) or later (newer, more recent)? To find out, learn which version is installed now.
The operating system's name refers to the Mojave Desert and is part of a series of California-themed names that began with OS X Mavericks. It succeeded macOS High Sierra and was followed by macOS Catalina. MacOS Mojave brings several iOS apps to the desktop operating system, including Apple News, Voice Memos, and Home. If your Mac is using an earlier version of any Mac operating system, you should install the latest Apple software updates, which can include important security updates and updates for the apps that are installed by macOS, such as Safari, Books, Messages, Mail, Music, Calendar, and Photos.
If your macOS isn't up to date, you may be able to update to a later version.
Which macOS version is installed?
From the Apple menu in the corner of your screen, choose About This Mac. You should see the macOS name, such as macOS Big Sur, followed by its version number. If you need to know the build number as well, click the version number to see it.
Which macOS version is the latest?
These are all Mac operating systems, starting with the most recent. When a major new macOS is released, it gets a new name, such as macOS Big Sur. As updates that change the macOS version number become available, this article is updated to show the latest version of that macOS.
If your Mac is using an earlier version of any Mac operating system, you should install the latest Apple software updates, which can include important security updates and updates for the apps that are installed by macOS, such as Safari, Books, Messages, Mail, Music, Calendar, and Photos.
macOS | Latest version |
---|---|
macOS Big Sur | 11.2.3 |
macOS Catalina | 10.15.7 |
macOS Mojave | 10.14.6 |
macOS High Sierra | 10.13.6 |
macOS Sierra | 10.12.6 |
OS X El Capitan | 10.11.6 |
OS X Yosemite | 10.10.5 |
OS X Mavericks | 10.9.5 |
OS X Mountain Lion | 10.8.5 |
OS X Lion | 10.7.5 |
Mac OS X Snow Leopard | 10.6.8 |
Mac OS X Leopard | 10.5.8 |
Mac OS X Tiger | 10.4.11 |
Mac OS X Panther | 10.3.9 |
Mac OS X Jaguar | 10.2.8 |
Mac OS X Puma | 10.1.5 |
Mac OS X Cheetah | 10.0.4 |
Upgrade to macOS Big Sur
Before installing this upgrade, make sure that your Mac is ready.
Check compatibility
macOS Big Sur supports most Mac models introduced in 2013 and later.
View compatible Mac modelsMake a backup
Before you upgrade, make a complete backup with Time Machine, or store your files in iCloud.
Learn how to back up your MacMac Os Mojave High Sierra Download
Free up space
If the installer needs more storage space to upgrade, you can free up space using tools that come with your Mac.
Free up storage spaceDownload macOS Big Sur
If you’re using macOS Mojave or later, choose Apple menu > System Preferences, then click Software Update. If you’re using an earlier macOS, use the App Store instead.
Learn how to download and install macOS Big SurGo to the App StoreGet to know macOS Big Sur
Learn about some of the new features of macOS Big Sur.
Control Center
Control Center brings favorite controls such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Do Not Disturb, and Sound together in a single place—so you can easily adjust them at any time.
Use Control CenterNotification Center
Notification Center puts notifications and>
Safari
Customize your start page, navigate with ease using the new tab bar, and access a new privacy report to see just how Safari protects your privacy as you browse.
Get to know SafariMaps
Discover great places around the world and navigate easier with guides, cycling directions, indoor maps, Look Around, electric vehicle routing, and more.
Messages
Send messages to friends and family using new tools that make it easier to keep track of group conversations and give you fun, engaging ways to express yourself.
Use MessagesLearn more on YouTubePhotos
Use the expanded editing capabilities in Photos to easily make simple changes and more advanced adjustments to your photos.
Learn how to edit your photosHave a question?
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