mine does not have a software update option in system preferences

If you want to update, sometimes it just doesn’t show in System Preferences, so you should search the App Store for MacOS.

Just in case, I’m pasting a link below too:

Download MacOS Monterey

This might also be the case if you have a Mac that isn’t compatible with Monterey. 😥

dale_family Said:

"mine does not have a software update option in system preferences: why is macbook not able to update?"

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Verifying Compatibility:

A. Start Here: Learn About Compatibility and how to Identify your Specific Mac Model - Apple Support

B. How to Verify:

I. Reveal your Model:

What is the Model of your Mac? To find out...

1. Go to: Apple menu
2. Click: About this Mac
3. View: Second Line-Down

then...

II. Compare the Results:

See if the Model you found is shown here:

• How to Upgrade to macOS Sierra - Apple Support
• How to Upgrade to macOS High Sierra - Apple Support
• How to Upgrade to macOS Mojave - Apple Support
• How to Upgrade to macOS Catalina - Apple Support
• How to Upgrade to macOS Big Sur - Apple Support

Then...

C. Proceed with the Install:

• How to Get Old Versions of macOS - Apple Support
• How to Create a Bootable Installer for macOS - Apple Support

A simple solution (nothing fancy)

1. Open Terminal
2. Type "bash" (because I don’t know ZSH)
3. Type softwareupdate -l (lists all updates)

Personally, I just use System Preferences for the updates.