How Long Do Macs Stay Supported? macOS Updates, App Support and When to Upgrade
How long do Macs and macOS stay supported? See why apps stop updating on older Macs, the three-version rule and when to upgrade or replace.
Apps that suddenly stop updating are often the first sign that a Mac is getting older, even when it still feels fast. That is usually not the Mac wearing out. It is the version of macOS on it falling behind.
There are three separate timelines to understand: your Mac, the version of macOS it runs, and the apps you rely on.
Your Mac lasts longer than its software
Apple keeps Macs on its yearly macOS upgrades for many years, so a Mac bought a few years ago can usually run a current version. Eventually, a new version of macOS leaves older models off its list. From then on, that Mac stays on the last version it can install.
The Mac keeps working. What changes is that the version of macOS it is stuck on will, in time, stop getting updates too.
The three-version rule
Apple keeps fixing security problems in the current version of macOS and the two before it. Right now that means macOS Tahoe 26, Sequoia 15 and Sonoma 14 all receive security updates. When macOS 27 Golden Gate arrives later this year, the oldest of those will drop off.
That gives each version of macOS roughly three years of security updates. After that, the fixes stop.
Apps are following the same rule
More and more Mac software now works the same way. Microsoft 365 for Mac supports the three most recent versions of macOS, and drops the oldest each time a new version comes out. Microsoft 365 apps on an older version keep working, but they stop receiving updates, including security updates. Most other major Mac apps are moving to the same three-version approach.
So the practical rule is simple. If your Mac is more than two versions of macOS behind, your apps will soon stop updating.
What to do
Check which version of macOS you are running: click the Apple menu and choose About This Mac. If you are on Tahoe, Sequoia or Sonoma, you are still covered. If you are on Ventura or older, update now if your Mac can.
If your Mac cannot install a supported version, plan to replace it, especially if it is used for work, banking or anything sensitive. A Mac without security updates is a risk even if it still runs well.
Before any big update, back up your Mac and check your key apps are ready. Our guide to backing up your Mac with Time Machine and a NAS explains how.
For businesses
Keep every Mac in the business within the three supported versions. One out-of-date Mac can stop receiving Microsoft 365 updates and become the weak point in your security. Plan replacements a year ahead so you are not caught out when a version drops off.
Need a hand?
If you would like us to check which of your Macs are still supported, or plan upgrades for your team, see our Mac Support & Setup service, or contact Your Mac Tech.
