Updating your MacBook to the latest macOS keeps it safe and gives you new features. Usually it takes a few clicks and a little patience. But there are a few things you want to arrange beforehand, and not every MacBook can go to the newest version. This article explains how to update your MacBook safely and what to do when it does not work.
Blue Apple repairs MacBooks in Amsterdam. An update that fails halfway is a common reason a Mac no longer starts. This preparation prevents that.
Can your MacBook run the latest macOS?
The newest version is macOS 27 Golden Gate, since September 2026. It only runs on Macs with an Apple chip. Intel MacBooks can go up to macOS 26 Tahoe or an earlier version, depending on the model. Your Mac only offers versions it can handle. See macOS versions at a glance.
Preparation
- Make a backup with Time Machine or make sure your files are in iCloud.
- Free up space. A big update needs tens of gigabytes of free space. Check System Settings, General, Storage.
- Connect the charger. An update that stops halfway because the battery is flat can cause problems.
- Check important apps. If you use software for work, check whether it already supports the new version.
How to update
- Open System Settings and choose General, Software Update.
- The Mac looks for updates. You see updates within your current version and, if your Mac can handle it, an upgrade to the new version.
- Click Update Now or Upgrade Now and follow the steps.
- The Mac downloads the update, restarts one or more times and is then done. Do not switch it off in the meantime.
Automatic updates
In Software Update click the info button next to Automatic Updates. At least turn on Install Security Responses. They are small and important. Big upgrades you can do by hand, at a moment that suits you.
Postponing an update
If you do not want a new major version yet, for example because a program for work is not ready for it, you can simply leave the upgrade. You still get security updates for your current version. Under Automatic Updates turn off automatic installation of macOS updates, so the Mac does not switch by itself.
Updating apps
Apps from the App Store are updated via the App Store, under Updates. Other programs often have their own update function, in the program's menu.
The update does not appear or fails
- No update shown: your Mac may already have the newest version it supports.
- Too little space: clear up, for example by deleting apps.
- The download stops: check your internet connection and try again later.
- Stuck on the Apple logo: first wait long enough; some steps take a long time. If nothing happens after a few hours, read MacBook will not start up.
Slow after the update?
For the first days the Mac re-indexes your files; that sometimes makes it slower and drains the battery faster. It passes by itself. If it continues, read problems after an update.
What we do at Blue Apple in Amsterdam
If your Mac no longer starts after an update, or the update keeps failing, we check whether it is software or hardware, such as a drive with errors. You hear beforehand what is needed. More on our page about MacBook repair in Amsterdam.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a macOS update take?
A small update often a quarter of an hour, a big upgrade easily an hour or more, depending on your internet.
Do I lose files in an update?
Normally not. A backup is still wise, in case something goes wrong.
Do I have to install every update?
Security updates, yes. A new major version can wait until your apps are ready for it.
