macOS 15 Sequoia Update: When and How to Download in Your Region

Apple is rolling out its latest macOS update, Sequoia, today, September 16, 2024. Named after the towering trees of California’s Sequoia National Park, macOS 15 brings a host of new features, tweaks, and enhancements. This blog covers everything you need to know about macOS 15 Sequoia, including the release time in different regions, compatible Macs, key features, and whether you should install the update right away.

Summary of macOS 15 Sequoia
macOS 15 Sequoia Release Time and Date
How to Install macOS Sequoia
Compatible Macs for macOS Sequoia
Key Features of macOS Sequoia
Should You Install macOS 15 Sequoia Now?
FAQs

1. Summary of macOS 15 Sequoia

macOS 15 Sequoia brings a wave of new functionality and improvements to the Mac ecosystem. From iPhone mirroring, allowing you to control your iPhone from your Mac, to advanced AI-driven tools in Safari and productivity apps, Sequoia enhances your Mac’s capability. Apple also introduces seamless game development tools and new presenter tools for video conferencing. The new update is set to go live today (September 16, 2024) and will be available for free to users with compatible Macs.

2. macOS 15 Sequoia Release Time and Date

Apple’s macOS 15 Sequoia is officially being released on Monday, September 16, 2024. Based on Apple’s typical update release patterns, it’s expected to be available at:

10 AM – PT
01 PM – ET
06 PM – BST
10:30 PM – IST

Depending on where you are, the update will drop at different times. Early downloads might be slower due to the simultaneous release of iOS 18, watchOS, and iPadOS 18.

3. How to Install macOS Sequoia

Once macOS Sequoia is available, installing it is easy and straightforward:

Open System Settings on your Mac.
Go to General > Software Update.
Let your Mac check for available updates and follow the prompts to install Sequoia.

If you have Automatic Updates enabled, your Mac may automatically download and install Sequoia when it’s available.

4. Compatible Macs for macOS Sequoia

Not all Macs will be able to install macOS 15 Sequoia. Here is a list of compatible devices:

iMac from 2019 and later
Mac Pro from 2019 and later
iMac Pro from 2017
Mac Studio from 2022 and later
MacBook Air from 2020 and later
Mac mini from 2018 and later
MacBook Pro from 2018 and later

Two 13-inch MacBook Air models (2018 and 2019) that currently support macOS Sonoma won’t be able to upgrade to Sequoia.

Additionally, M-series Macs (M1, M2, and M3) will support AI-driven features like Apple Intelligence, which includes advanced capabilities for writing assistance, image creation, and video editing. Older Intel-based Macs will still receive security updates, but many of Sequoia’s cutting-edge features won’t be available for them.

5. Key Features of macOS Sequoia

macOS Sequoia comes loaded with new features aimed at improving productivity, collaboration, and creative work:

iPhone Mirroring

You can now mirror your iPhone’s screen directly onto your Mac’s display and interact with it using your Mac’s mouse and keyboard. This makes managing tasks between devices more efficient.

Video Conferencing Presenter Preview

Sequoia introduces a handy presenter preview feature for video conferencing. This allows you to see how you’ll appear to others before starting your presentation.

Safari Enhancements

Safari receives several tweaks, including faster browsing, improved privacy settings, and enhanced password management. Apple has also included Apple Intelligence features, exclusive to M-series Macs, for tasks like writing suggestions and photo editing.

Game Porting for Developers

Apple makes it easier for developers to port games between iPhone, Mac, and iPad, streamlining cross-platform game development.

Performance Boosts and Bug Fixes

In addition to the headline features, Sequoia brings general performance improvements, bug fixes, and interface enhancements to make your Mac run smoother than ever.

6. Should You Install macOS 15 Sequoia Now?

If your Mac is compatible with macOS 15 Sequoia, you’ll likely want to take advantage of its new features and improvements. However, as with any new major release, there’s always the chance of unexpected bugs or issues that surface once the update is out in the wild.

It may be worth waiting a few days to a week before upgrading, allowing time for early adopters to report any major problems. Additionally, the download process may be faster after the initial rush of users has subsided.

7. FAQs

Q1: What time will macOS 15 Sequoia be available in my region?

Apple typically releases updates around 10 AM – PT. In other regions, it will likely be available at 1 PM – ET, 6 PM – BST, and 10:30 PM – IST on Monday, September 16, 2024.

Q2: Will macOS Sequoia work on my Intel-based Mac?

Yes, Intel Macs from 2019 and later will support macOS Sequoia, but many of the new AI-driven features, such as Apple Intelligence, are exclusive to M-series Macs.

Q3: What’s new in macOS 15 Sequoia?

macOS Sequoia introduces several key features, including iPhone mirroring, improved video conferencing tools, Safari enhancements, and developer tools for easier game porting. M-series Macs will also benefit from advanced AI features like writing assistance and image creation.

Q4: Should I install macOS 15 Sequoia right away?

If you want to avoid potential bugs and download issues, it may be wise to wait a few days before upgrading. Early adopters often encounter issues that get patched in subsequent updates.