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?
Environment
This information 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
Traditionally, new versions of macOS are released by Apple each fall. Information Technology will hold the version back for up to 90 days in order to ensure there are no major bugs or issues when released 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 will require at least 15 GB of free disk space and can take up to two hours to complete. Please also be sure that any laptop is plugged into power before beginning the upgrade.
The upgrade will also reboot the computer multiple times during the process.
Installing the Upgrade
Once ready to perform the upgrade, follow these steps to start the process.
- Once the upgrade is made available, the computer will alert you that an upgrade is ready. In many cases, it will ask to install it overnight, when not in use.
- To install the upgrade manually:
- Click on the Apple menu () - System Settings...
- Click General
- Click Software Update
- Select the upgrade to install and click Update Now or Upgrade Now
- When prompted, enter your computers' 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 to have administrator permission to upgrade to macOS 26. Staff and Faculty can run Privileges before starting the installation.
For more information, you can visit Apple's knowledge base article on the subject.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you can chat with Bowdoin Bot of contact the Bowdoin College Service Desk by phone at (207) 725-3030 or in person at the Tech Hub in Smith Union.