Questions
- How do I upgrade my Mac to the latest operating system?
- When does my Mac get updated?
- How do I update my Mac's software?
- When does the newest version of macOS get released to students, staff, and faculty?
- Why can't I get the newest version of my Mac's operating system yet?
- How do I install a macOS upgrade manually?
Environment
This article is intended for Bowdoin staff, faculty, and students who are using a Bowdoin-issued Apple laptop (MacBook, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air) or Apple desktop (iMac, Mac Studio, Mac Mini).
Resolution
New versions of macOS are traditionally released by Apple each fall. Information Technology holds the version back for up to 90 days to ensure there are no major bugs or issues before releasing it to campus. These upgrades are usually released to campus when Apple issues the public ".1 Release".
For 2025, macOS Tahoe, also known as macOS 26, has been released. Information Technology is currently waiting for the public release of macOS 26.1 before releasing it to campus.
Preparing for the Upgrade
- The upgrade to macOS requires at least 15 GB of free disk space and can take up to two hours to complete.
- Be sure that any laptop is plugged into power before beginning the upgrade.
- The upgrade will reboot the computer multiple times during the process.
Installing the Upgrade
When the upgrade is made available, the computer will alert you that an upgrade is ready. In many cases, it will ask to install overnight, when the computer is not in use. To install the upgrade manually:
- Select the Apple menu (), then select System Settings.
- Select General.
- Select Software Update.
- Select the upgrade to install, then select Update Now or Upgrade Now.
- When prompted, enter your computer's username and password (this might be different from your Bowdoin username and password).
- Students should be administrators of their own computers and do not need to run Privileges first.
- Follow all on-screen prompts.
Please Note: If you are installing from an operating system older than macOS Sequoia, you may need administrator permission to upgrade to macOS 26. Staff and faculty can run the Privileges app before starting the installation. See Privileges for macOS - a solution for Administrator permissions requirement in the Related Articles section.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
Additional Resources