macOS versions list in order

Apple’s Mac OS X was launched all the way back in 2001, if you can believe it. And it’s come a long way too — evolving into the sharp and super easy to use interface that we know and love today. With iCloud storage, the ability to back up all your Mac’s data with Time Machine, and loads more features — Mac OS makes computing (and our lives) a lot easier!

For macOS history buffs, we’ve compiled a list of all the Mac OS X software versions from 2001 to present. We’ll also show you how to check which version your Mac is running, how to update it to the latest operating system, and even reveal which OS you’ll need to hook a VR headset up to your Mac.

List of macOS names and latest versions

Before we dive into the detail, it’s worth mentioning that Mac OS X and macOS are basically the same thing. Apple just renamed their software in 2016 to bring all of its operating systems under one brand — like iOS (iPhone), iPadOS (iPad), and watchOS (Apple Watch). So, about that list…

Which macOS versions are supported?

Right now, Apple offer support for their three most recent Mac operating software versions. In order — that’s Sonoma, Ventura, and Monterey. This means that macOS Monterey is the oldest Mac software still receiving security updates and bug fixes, with the latest version (12.7.3) released on 22 January 2024.

How to check your macOS version

Want to see which version of macOS your iMac or MacBook is running on? Just follow these simple steps to find out:

1. Click on the Apple menu (the Apple logo) in the top-left corner of your screen.
2. Select ‘About This Mac’ from the dropdown.
3. You’ll see a window appear which will display some details like your Mac model, the year it was made, and a few specs.
4. At the bottom of the list, you should see your macOS name and its version number.

How to update your macOS

It’s always best to keep your computer updated with the latest Mac OS editions. That way, you can make the most of Apple’s new features and know that your system and data is safe thanks to their regular security updates.

Here’s how to upgrade to the latest macOS operating system and update to a new version of your current software:

1. Before you start, make sure to back up your Mac with Time Machine and check that your Mac’s connected to the internet.
2. Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen.
3. Choose ‘System Settings’ from the list that appears. This might say ‘System Preferences’ instead, depending on which macOS you’re currently running on.
4. Select ‘General’ from the System Settings sidebar.
5. Click on the ‘Software Update’ option. Your Mac will then start checking for new software.
6. If a new version of macOS is available, just click on ‘Update’ (which will install a new version of the current software) or ‘Upgrade’ (which will download a major new version of macOS with a brand-new name).
7. If you’ve followed the instructions above and no new software is available, it means that your Mac is up to date.

It’s also worth saying that Mac OS X and macOS updates used to be installed via the App Store. So, if you’re using an older version of Apple’s operating system (pre-Mojave) and want to upgrade — it’s best checking here. In fact, you can still find macOS software in the App Store for Mac.

Key features of macOS Sonoma

The latest macOS is Sonoma, which was released in September 2023. As with every fresh software release from Apple, Sonoma has brought some handy new features and improvements to Mac — all designed to boost your productivity and creativity.

So, now that you know how to get your Mac running on the latest macOS, let’s get you up to speed with the coolest new stuff that Sonoma offers:

Desktop widgets

You can now customise your desktop with widgets, which make it easier than ever to quickly interact with your favourite apps without having to open them. Want to resume that podcast from earlier? Or maybe just add something to your list of reminders? You can now do it in record time. And with Continuity, you can even add iPhone widgets to your desktop without having to install those apps on your Mac. Clever stuff.

Video conferencing

This new feature lets you share your screen on a call with colleagues without getting blocked out. The large Presenter Overlay keeps the spotlight firmly on you and frames your screen on a separate layer next to you. Then you can just move, walk, and talk in front of your content for a more engaging presentation. Sound like too much? Just use the small overlay to appear in a moveable bubble that floats over your shared screen instead.

New screen savers

Apple have even made the login experience better for you. Sonoma now displays slow-mo video screensavers of some stunning locations from around the world. And when you type in your password and hit enter, they seamlessly transform into your desktop wallpaper.

Updated Safari

Apple’s web browser has also had an overhaul. You can now create profiles for work and personal use, helping you separate your browsing history, extensions, and favourites. Search has been made faster too and shows more relevant suggestions so you can find stuff more quickly. And you can even create web apps that are accessible from your dock, letting you use any website like an app!

FAQs

What’s the current operating system for Mac?

At the time of writing, macOS Sonoma 14.3.1 is the latest version of Apple’s Mac software. The most recent update just provided some small bug fixes, including an issue where text could unexpectedly duplicate or overlap while typing.

What is the oldest Mac that is still supported?

As we know that Monterey is the oldest macOS still receiving updates, you’d be best off looking at which Mac models are able to run it in order to find the oldest supported Mac. According to Apple, the oldest Mac that you can upgrade to Monterey is a late 2013 Mac Pro.

Is my Mac too old to update?

If you can’t upgrade your Mac to at least macOS Monterey, which is the oldest version of macOS still supported, then yes — it’s too old to update.

Here’s a list of the Mac models macOS Monterey is compatible with:

• MacBook models from early 2016 or later
• MacBook Air models from early 2015 or later
• MacBook Pro models from early 2015 or later
• iMac from 2015 or later
• iMac Pro from 2017 or later
• Mac Pro models from late 2013 or later
• Mac mini models from 2014 or later
• Mac Studio (2022)

Do I have to update my macOS in order?

No, you don’t have to. You can upgrade your Mac to the latest version of macOS (Sonoma) without installing any intermediate updates. Just make sure to check that your Mac is modern enough to run it by using this Sonoma compatibility list from Apple.

It’s always good practice to back up your Mac using Time Machine before doing any software updates though. And you’ll also have to keep in mind that some apps and hardware might not work with the latest version of macOS, so it’s best to check for any compatibility issues before clicking on that ‘Update’ or ‘Upgrade’ button.

Which Mac OS do I need to use a VR headset?

If you’ve got a VR headset that you want to attach to your Mac so you can view your 360° project in Final Cut Pro or Motion — you’ll have to be using macOS 10.13 or later. You’ll also have to download Steam and SteamVR to get it all configured properly. You can learn more about this with Apple’s VR headset setup instructions.

What OS is on Apple Vision Pro?

Apple’s most hyped product in years, the Vision Pro mixed-reality headset, was finally released in February 2024 in the United States and should hopefully be coming to the UK later this year. It’s a standalone computer, but instead of running on macOS, Apple have created a new operating system for their Vision Pro called visionOS.

Apple says that visionOS is “built on the foundation of macOS, iOS, and iPadOS”. So, it should feel familiar to use and fit right in with the rest of the Apple ecosystem.

Source: CURRYS