8 Things You Should Know before Upgrading to macOS Sequoia

Apple revealed macOS Sequoia at WWDC on June 10, 2024. Like every major update before, this new macOS update brings us many new features, such as Apple Intelligence, Window Tiling, iPhone Mirroring, etc.

Are you one of those Mac users who are excited to try macOS Sequoia? Wait a minute. Before installing the macOS Sequoia to your Mac, let's take a look at 8 important things you should know about the new macOS.

Let's get started.

1. What's New in macOS Sequoia?

Apple introduced a set of new features to macOS Sequoia. Below are some of the notable ones:

• Apple Intelligence: Helps you write, express yourself, and get things done effortlessly.
• iPhone Mirroring: Allows you to view iPhone content and control it on your nearby Mac.
• Windows Tiling Management: Makes it easy to rearrange open windows into side-by-side tiles or place them in corners.
• Passwords App: All your credentials in one place.
• Notes: Comes with more features, such as live audio transcription, math notes, highlighting, collapsible sections, and more.
• AirPods: Allows you to interact with your AirPods by nodding or shaking your head.

2. Which Macs Will Get Apple Intelligence?

Apple Intelligence is compatible with M-series Macs and does not support any Intel Macs. The specific models are:

• MacBook Air: M1 and later
• MacBook Pro: M1 and later
• iMac: M1 and later
• Mac Mini: M1 and later
• Mac Studio: M1 Max and later
• Mac Pro: M2 Ultra

3. When Will macOS Sequoia Be Released?

macOS Sequoia was officially released on September 16, 2024. The latest version is macOS Sequoia 15.1.1.

4. What Macs Support macOS Sequoia?

Below are all the devices supported by macOS Sequoia:

• iMac: 2019 and later
• iMac Pro: 2017 and later
• Mac Studio: 2022
• MacBook Air: 2020 and later
• Mac Mini: 2018 and later
• MacBook Pro: 2018 and later
• Mac Pro: 2019 and later

5. How Many GB Is macOS Sequoia 15.1.1?

The macOS Sequoia full installer is about 15 GB. To successfully download and install it, it is recommended that you keep at least 30 GB of free space on your Mac.

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6. How to Download and Install macOS Sequoia via Software Update

Now that you have confirmed your Mac is compatible with macOS Sequoia and has enough storage space, move on to learn how to download and install macOS Sequoia on your Mac.

1. Back up your Mac with Time Machine or iCloud.
2. Click the Apple menu and select System Settings.
3. Click General > Software Update > Upgrade Now.

   

4. Download and install the macOS Sequoia 15 update.

If macOS Sequoia does not support your Mac, see how to install macOS on an unsupported Mac.

7. How to Get the macOS Sequoia Full Installer?

If you want to install macOS Sequoia on a separate partition or external drive, you will need to download the macOS Sequoia full installer.

Here's how to download macOS Sequoia full installer with the App Store:

1. Click this official link to find macOS Sequoia in the App Store.
2. Click Get > Download.

   

3. Follow the onscreen download and install instructions.

Alternatively, you can extract the macOS Sequoia installer from an InstallAssistant.pkg. Here's how to do it:

1. Click one of the downloadable links below.

   • Download macOS 15.1.1 Full Installer
2. Open the downloaded InstallAssistant.pkg file and run it as required.

   

3. You will get an application called Install macOS Sequoia 15 in your Applications folder.

   

8. How Long Does macOS Sequoia 15.1.1 Take to Install?

The installation time depends on a variety of factors, such as your internet connection, Mac model, current macOS, and more.

In most cases, the total time to install macOS Sequoia is about 30 minutes to an hour. To ensure a smooth installation, make sure of the following:

• Your Mac is connected to a stable Wi-Fi or internet connection.
• Your Mac has enough storage space. (See how to fix "not enough storage space to install macOS Sequoia".)
• Your Mac has more than 20% battery (it’s best to connect your Mac to a charger during installation).

Conclusion

Having read this far, you now have a better understanding of macOS Sequoia. As for whether you should upgrade your macOS, it depends on your needs. We suggest that if you are a regular user, please wait for the official release.

Are you ready to upgrade your Mac to the new macOS?

It is worth mentioning that whether you are upgrading or downgrading macOS, we always recommend creating backups for your current macOS. After all, you never know when you will need them.