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Update OS from Sierra 10.12.6 not updating. HELP!

I am trying to update my iOs on my iMac (late 2012 not Pro I don't think) but it isn't coming up in auto updates (says it is up to date)or when I go into system preferences. Does this mean I can't update it anymore? I am having issues with App compatibility on things like Zoom with this OS. Can anyone help please.

iMac Pro

Posted on Feb 13, 2021 2:46 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 13, 2021 2:51 AM

You can't install new "main" versions of Mac OS via software update in Sierra.


The newest OS you can run on your iMac is 10.15 Catalina.

List of compatibility: Mac OS from 10.10 … - Apple Community


Follow this guide to install a newer version:

How to get old versions of macOS - Apple Support


Make a backup

Before installing, it’s a good idea to back up your Mac. Time Machine makes it simple, and other backup methods are also available. Learn how to back up your Mac.

 


Download macOS

It takes time to download and install macOS, so make sure that you're plugged into AC power and have a reliable internet connection.

Safari uses these links to find the old installers in the App Store. After downloading from the App Store, the installer opens automatically.


Good luck!




2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 13, 2021 2:51 AM in response to Miamonroe

You can't install new "main" versions of Mac OS via software update in Sierra.


The newest OS you can run on your iMac is 10.15 Catalina.

List of compatibility: Mac OS from 10.10 … - Apple Community


Follow this guide to install a newer version:

How to get old versions of macOS - Apple Support


Make a backup

Before installing, it’s a good idea to back up your Mac. Time Machine makes it simple, and other backup methods are also available. Learn how to back up your Mac.

 


Download macOS

It takes time to download and install macOS, so make sure that you're plugged into AC power and have a reliable internet connection.

Safari uses these links to find the old installers in the App Store. After downloading from the App Store, the installer opens automatically.


Good luck!




Feb 13, 2021 3:20 AM in response to Miamonroe

The App Store Updates page only informs you of updates available for the OS you are running.




Installing a newer OS is called an upgrade.




Which OS you can upgrade to will be governed by which model and year your mac is.




Click on the  top left of your screen click on About This Mac to find out the year of your mac.




For older OS’s,




Open Safari and click on this link, 




How to get old versions of macOS – Apple Support




Go to Check Compatibility to see if your mac qualifies for the OS upgrade you want.




Then go to the Download OS section and click on the OS you want to install.




Before upgrading make a full back up of your Mac.




Check that third party apps you use have updates available for the new OS.


https://roaringapps.com


Check that your printers/ scanners etc have updated drivers and software available for the new OS.




Connect your mac to your router via cable rather than rely on WiFi.


Do not use your mac while it is downloading


and do not use any other devices that share the same internet connection.




If the App Store says ‘Open’ then it is detecting a previous download of the install app


go to the Applications folder locate Install macOS ******.app.


Move it to the Trash, empty the Trash.


Restart, click on the link again, the App Store should say ‘Get' or 'Download'.




If you want to or are able to install Big Sur, open Safari and click on the link below.


How to upgrade to macOS Big Sur - Apple Support




If you are considering upgrading to Catalina or Big Sur be warned they do not support 32bit apps.


Your Mac is probably running 32bit apps and these will need to be updated to 64bit apps,


some updates may be free, some may be paid. Use this app to discover which apps you have


are 32bit, https://www.stclairsoft.com/Go64/ then contact the developers of the software to see


if they are offering 64bit updates.

Update OS from Sierra 10.12.6 not updating. HELP!

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