macOS Big Sur elevates the most advanced desktop operating system in the world to a new level of power and beauty. Experience Mac to the fullest with a refined new design. Enjoy the biggest Safari update ever. Discover new features for Maps and Messages. And get even more transparency around your privacy.
Check compatibility
macOS Big Sur is compatible with the following computers. If your Mac isn't compatible, you may be able to install an old version of macOS instead.
MacBook introduced in 2015 or later
MacBook Air introduced in 2013 or later
MacBook Pro introduced in late 2013 or later
Mac mini introduced in 2014 or later
iMac introduced in 2014 or later
iMac Pro
Mac Pro introduced in 2013 or later
View the complete list of compatible computers.
If you're upgrading from macOS Sierra or later, your Mac will need 35.5 GB of available storage to upgrade. If you're upgrading from an earlier release, your Mac will need up to 44.5 GB of available storage. To upgrade from OS X Mountain Lion, first upgrade to OS X El Capitan, then upgrade to macOS Big Sur.
Should I upgrade to Catalina or directly to Big Sur? The only new features I care about at all are modest interest in interoperability with the updated iOS Notes and Reminders, but the main reason I'm thinking of upgrading is longevity and security, and my main hesitation is 'if it ain't broke don't fix it.' If you're upgrading from macOS Sierra or later, your Mac will need 35.5 GB of available storage to upgrade. If you're upgrading from an earlier release, your Mac will need up to 44.5 GB of available storage. To upgrade from OS X Mountain Lion, first upgrade to OS X El Capitan, then upgrade to macOS Big Sur.
Cannot Upgrade From Catalina To Big Sur
Successful Catalina/OC to Big Sur upgrade. So far everything but on-board Audio works, but that was also the case in Catalina. Reactions: sriHacPro, PREngineer, balazs631 and 4 others. MacBook Air (early 2015) MacOS Catalina (December 14/19. Apple Support has suggested to upgrade to Big Sur (from my Catalina) in order that it MIGHT resolve an issue I have with Family Sharing/Apple TV+ (videos/movies play with a BLACK SCREEN only but have audio!!).
Download macOS Big Sur
Upgrade From Catalina To Big Sur
If you're using macOS Mojave or later, get macOS Big Sur by Software Update: choose Apple menu > System Preferences, then click Software Update.
Or use this link to open the macOS Big Sur page on the App Store: get macOS Big Sur. Then click the Get button or iCloud download icon.
Install macOS Big Sur
After being downloaded, the installer will open automatically. Click Continue and follow the onscreen instructions.
Please allow the installation to finish without putting your Mac to sleep or closing its lid. During the installation, it may restart and display a progress bar or blank screen several times. You might find it easiest to begin installation in the evening so that it can complete overnight, if needed.
Stay up to date
After installing macOS Big Sur, you will be notified when updates to macOS Big Sur are available. To check for updates, choose Apple menu > System Preferences, then click Software Update.