How to Update a Mac to macOS 27

Apple releases macOS 27 Golden Gate on Monday, September 14, 2026. Until then Software Update shows only macOS 26 point releases, which is normal. The one assumption that trips people up is that every recent Mac gets it: Intel Macs do not, and no setting changes that. On a Mac that qualifies, most failed upgrades come down to a nearly full disk or a lid closed mid-install.

Check that the Mac can run macOS 27

Click the Apple menu, then About This Mac. If the Chip line says Apple M1 or later, the Mac qualifies. Apple lists MacBook Air and MacBook Pro with Apple silicon from 2020, Mac mini from 2020, iMac from 2021, Mac Studio from 2022, the 2023 Mac Pro, and the 2026 MacBook Neo. A Mac with an Intel processor stays on macOS 26 Tahoe, which Apple has said is the last version for Intel, and it keeps getting security updates for a few more years.

Free up space before you start

Open System Settings, click General in the sidebar, then Storage. A major upgrade needs a large download plus room to unpack it, so aim for at least 30 GB free. Click More Info next to a category such as Applications or Documents to see what is taking room, or follow free up storage on Mac for the usual suspects.

Back up with Time Machine

Open System Settings, General, Time Machine, then click Add Backup Disk and pick an external drive. Let the first backup finish before you upgrade. A major macOS release rarely loses files, but a backup is the only way back to macOS 26 once you have installed 27.

Plug in, join Wi-Fi, and open Software Update

Connect the Mac to power and to Wi-Fi. Open System Settings, General, Software Update. Apple calls a new named release an upgrade, so on September 14 the button next to macOS 27 Golden Gate reads Upgrade Now rather than Update Now. If nothing shows, click Check for Update or press Command-R on that screen. Before Monday it will not be there at all, and on release day Apple rolls it out in waves, so check again later rather than hunting for a download link.

Install and leave the Mac alone

Click Upgrade Now, enter your administrator password, and agree to the terms. The Mac restarts several times and may sit on a blank screen or a progress bar for a while. Do not close the lid or put it to sleep. When it comes back, Apple menu, About This Mac should say macOS 27.

If the installer reports an error. Apple's first three fixes are the ones that work: free up more storage if the message mentions space, make sure the internet connection is stable, and restart. If it still fails, restart into macOS Recovery by holding the power button until Options appears, then choose Reinstall macOS to install without other software interfering.

If you would rather wait. Nothing forces the upgrade. Leave it in Software Update and it stays offered until you click Upgrade Now, so waiting a week or two for 27.0.1 is a fine choice on a work Mac.