Whether you’re new to Mac or haven’t updated software in macOS in a while, follow along below for how to check for updates.
Below are the steps to check for updates for any third-party applications that you’ve downloaded via the App Store along with the default macOS apps and operating system. For a more in-depth look at how to update software not downloaded from the App Store, check out our tutorial here.
Note: It’s best to make sure you have a fresh backup of your Mac before installing a macOS system update.
Mac: How to check for updates
- Open the App Store
- Click Updates at the top toolbar of the app
- Click Update on the apps you’d like and Restart for any macOS system updates
- You can also opt for the Update All button in the top right corner
Check out the images below for more details:
After opening the App Store app, you’ll find Updates on the far right of the toolbar up top as shown above.
System updates will typically require a restart. Apple also shares a couple of tips about checking for expected updates:
- Install any updates that are listed, then return to the Updates tab to check again. If you still don’t see an expected update, use the Search field to find the app that you want to update.
- Updates for Safari and Mac firmware might not appear, because you get them as part of macOS updates.
For more help getting the most out of your Apple devices, check out our how to guide as well as the following articles:
- macOS Mojave: How to use new screenshot and screencast tools without Grab
- How to fix stuck MacBook and MacBook Pro keybaord
- How to add secondary destinations in Apple Maps while navigating
- How to turn True Tone on and off for macOS and iOS
- How to set 24-hour time on iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch & Mac
- How to prepare your Mac for an upgrade to a new MacBook Pro
- macOS: How to set a custom Siri keyboard shortcut
- How to update Sonos speakers for AirPlay 2 and HomeKit
- iPhone & iPad: How to get the official Apple user guides for free
