Ensuring that system software remains current is a key aspect of maintaining a computer, and any Mac running macOS Sonoma & Ventura is no different. If you're new to macOS Ventura 13 and beyond, you might be wondering where the Software Update preference panel has gone and how to update the macOS system software, given that there's no longer an easily visible spot to look for updates.

Certainly, you can still update the system software in macOS Sonoma & Ventura, but the Software Update feature has been integrated more deeply into the revamped System Settings experience. This can still confuse some long-time Mac users trying to find various settings, toggles, and system functionalities.

How to Check for System Software Updates in macOS Sonoma / Ventura

To find out which system software updates are available in macOS Ventura, go to System Settings:

1. Navigate to the ? Apple menu in the top-left corner on your Mac.

2. Select "General" from the list of settings.

3. Choose "Software Update."

4. The Software Update tool will then check for any available system software updates.

At this point, you'll either see options to install system software updates or a notification stating that your Mac is already up to date.

Installing System Updates in macOS Sonoma & macOS Ventura

Here, you can install any available system updates by clicking on "Update Now," provided they are available.

You can also click "More Info" to learn more about the software updates, which includes release notes and the size of the update.

What if Software Update Says "Your Mac is Up to Date" but I Know There's an Available macOS Update?

You might encounter a 'Your Mac is up to date' message, which usually means there are no updates available. If you're on the latest version of macOS, seeing this message is normal.

However, if you believe there should be an update but don't see one, refreshing the Software Update process continues to work. So, if you see an 'up to date' message but know there's a software update available for your Mac, you may want to refresh the updates to check Apple's servers again.

System Preferences Transforms into System Settings

The redesign of System Preferences into System Settings continues to surprise some Mac users.

If you're transitioning to the Mac from an iOS background, this change might feel more intuitive since the process now mirrors checking for updates on an iPhone, with (System) Settings > General > Software Update.

For long-time Mac users, this change could be frustrating as it places the Software Update feature behind another layer of settings, adding an extra step to access software updates. In previous macOS versions, accessing the software update mechanism was more straightforward.

App Updates Remain with the App Store or Within the App Itself

This discussion focuses on updating system software, but Mac apps continue to be updated through the Mac App Store Updates section or directly within the app for those downloaded outside the App Store, such as Chrome, Brave, Edge, Office, Photoshop, etc.

What are your thoughts on the new Software Update mechanism in macOS Ventura 13 and newer? Do you prefer the older method where accessing software updates was more direct?

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