Apple released new updates for macOS Sequoia and macOS Sonoma, extending security and maintenance support to Macs that haven't moved to macOS Tahoe.
The updates are available through Software Update on supported Macs. Apple hasn't identified any major new consumer features, which points to releases focused on security, stability, performance, and compatibility.
Users can install the updates by opening System Settings, selecting General, and choosing Software Update. A Mac will only offer the update that applies to its currently installed operating system.
The new releases give Mac owners another reason to stay current even when they aren't ready or able to install macOS Tahoe. Some Macs can't run Tahoe, while businesses and other users may remain on an older version because of software, hardware, or management requirements.
Apple has historically maintained the current version of macOS alongside two earlier releases. The company doesn't promise a fixed support period, however, and older versions generally receive security and compatibility fixes rather than new features.
Updates for macOS Sequoia and macOS Sonoma keep older Macs secure and compatible while Apple puts most new features into macOS Tahoe and macOS 27 Golden Gate.
Apple introduced macOS 27 at WWDC on June 8 and released the first developer beta later that day. The company followed with the first public beta on July 13.
Security details may follow
Apple hasn't posted complete security documents for the new Sequoia and Sonoma updates. The company often publishes or expands those documents after an operating system update becomes available.
The previous updates, macOS Sequoia 15.7.7 and macOS Sonoma 14.8.7, arrived on May 11 with security fixes for both operating systems. Apple also released Safari 26.5.2 on June 29 for Sequoia and Sonoma.
Safari 26.5.2 fixed WebKit and web extension vulnerabilities that could expose sensitive information, move data across website boundaries, escape web-content restrictions, or crash Safari and related processes.
The separate Safari update showed why older macOS versions still need active maintenance. A Mac doesn't have to run Apple's newest operating system to face the same browser and WebKit threats.
Most users running macOS Sequoia or macOS Sonoma should install the applicable update. People who depend on specialized software, drivers, security tools, or managed enterprise systems may want to confirm compatibility before updating.
