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macOS Monterey is the latest version of the macOS operating system, which was released in June 2021. It includes a number of new features and improvements, such as a new Maps app, a redesigned Messages app, and support for AirPods Pro. It also includes a number of security and performance enhancements.
A lot of users want to update their Mac to Monterey, but failed at the end. How to fix my Mac won’t update to Monterey error? You will find the right answer into this post.
System Requirements for macOS Monterey
The new macOS Monterey is here, and it brings a host of new features and improvements to your Mac. Here’s what you need to know about the new operating system, and how to get the most out of it.
First and foremost, macOS Monterey requires an Intel-based Mac with at least 4GB of RAM and 12.5GB of available storage space. It’s also worth noting that some features, like AirPlay to Mac, require specific hardware.
macOS Monterey Compatible Models
As for compatibility, macOS Monterey is compatible with all Macs that are able to run macOS Big Sur. That includes the following models:
- MacBook (2015 and later)
- MacBook Air (2013 and later)
- MacBook Pro (2013 and later)
- Mac mini (2014 and later)
- iMac (2014 and later)
- iMac Pro (2017 and later)
- Mac Pro (2013 and later)
How to Update Mac to macOS Monterey
Once you’ve confirmed that your Mac is compatible, you can upgrade to macOS Monterey by opening the System Preferences app and going to the Software Update pane. From there, simply follow the on-screen instructions to update your Mac to Monterey.
As with any major operating system update, there are a few things you should do before upgrading. First, back up your Mac using Time Machine or your preferred backup method. This will ensure that you have a copy of your files in case something goes wrong during the upgrade process.
Next, it’s always a good idea to clean up your Mac before installing a new operating system. This will help free up some space on your hard drive and ensure that the upgrade process goes smoothly.
Finally, make sure you have all of the latest software updates installed on your Mac. This includes updates for your apps as well as for macOS itself.
Once you’ve taken care of all of that, you’re ready to upgrade to macOS Monterey. Just follow the on-screen instructions and you’ll be up and running in no time.
Why Won’t My Mac Update to Monterey?
There are a few reasons why your Mac might not be able to update to Monterey.
Reason 1: Your Mac is not Compatible with macOS Monterey
Generally, only compatible Mac models will receive update notification for macOS Monterey. You need to make sure your Mac is compatible with Monterey operating system. To do this, go to About This Mac section and note down the current Mac model. Next, check the list we shared in above to see if it is included.
If your Mac is not on official support list, then you have to apply a few hacks to break the rules. However, this is not very dangerous and not recommended.
Please go with the current OS version if your Mac is not compatible with macOS Monterey.
Reason 2: Free Space is Not Enough
One of the most common reasons why a Mac won’t update to Monterey is because there isn’t enough free space on the hard drive. In order to install the new operating system, your Mac needs at least 50 GB of free space. To see how much free space is available on your Mac, click the Apple menu in the top left corner of your screen, then choose About This Mac. Next, move to the Storage tab and you can see how much free space is left on your Mac.
If there is no enough free storage available, your Mac definitely won’t be able to update to Monterey.
To free up space, you can do so by deleting files or folders that you no longer need, uninstalling apps, or moving files to an external storage device.
Reason 3: Poor WiFi Connection
The installation file of Monterey is over 12 GB and this takes time to complete even for normal WiFi connection.
There are a few reasons why you might not be able to download a Monterey update due to a poor wifi connection. One reason could be that your wifi signal is not strong enough to reach the update server. Another reason could be that your wifi router is not configured correctly to allow access to the update server. Finally, your ISP could be blocking access to the update server. If any of these are the case, you will need to fix the issue before you will be able to download the Monterey update.
If this was the case, please connect to another fast WiFi network and start to download macOS Monterey again.
Reason 4: Update is Not Available in Your Region
When it comes to software updates, Apple is usually pretty good about pushing them out to all of its devices at the same time. However, there are times when the company will release an update for one region first, and then roll it out to other regions later. This can be frustrating for users in regions that don’t get the update right away, but there are some benefits to this approach.
Some of the macOS updates, especially for beta programs, are only available is a limited set of regions. That is the reason why your Mac won’t update to Monterey. Another reason could be that your device is not registered in the correct region for the update. If you are having trouble downloading the update, you may want to try changing your region settings or contacting your carrier for more information.
Reason 5: System Clock is Not Correct
If your Mac is having trouble connecting to Apple Server, it might be because the system clock is set to the wrong time zone. You can check your clock settings by going to the Date & Time preference pane in System Preferences. If the time zone is incorrect, you can set it to the correct value by clicking the "Set date and time automatically" checkbox.
If you’re still having trouble, you can try resetting your Mac’s NVRAM. NVRAM is a type of memory that stores certain settings and information, and resetting it can often fix problems with things like your system clock. To reset your NVRAM, shut down your Mac and then turn it on while holding down the Option, Command, P, and R keys. Keep holding those keys until your Mac reboots and you see the Apple logo.
Reason 6: Monterey Install App is Corrupted
If you’re having trouble updating your Mac to the latest version of macOS, it could be because the macOS installer app is damaged. In that case, you can try deleting the installer app and then downloading it again from the App Store.
Here’s how to do that:
1. Quit the macOS installer if it’s open.
2. In the Finder, go to the Applications folder.
3. Find the installer app named "Install macOS Monterey", then right-click or Control-click it and choose Move to Trash.
4. Open the App Store and try downloading the macOS Monterey installer again.
Video Tutorial: Why My Mac Won’t Update to Monterey
Conclusion
We provide a couple of solutions to fix the problem why won’t my Mac update to Monterey. Please check them carefully and test them out one by one.
In fact, macOS Monterey is a great update for your Mac, and it brings a host of new features and improvements. Be sure to take the time to explore all of the new features and take advantage of the ones that interest you the most. With a little bit of exploration, you’re sure to find something that you love about the new operating system.