Keeping your operating system up to date helps your device run securely and correctly. This article explains how to check for operating system updates on Mac, iPad, Windows, Chrome OS, and Android devices.
Before You Begin
Before checking for operating system updates, make sure this is what you need.
Your operating system (OS) controls your entire device. If your operating system is already up to date, you may need to check whether your web browser is up to date instead. Browsers such as Chrome and Safari are updated separately from your operating system.
Related article: Check That Your Browser Is Up to Date
How to Check for Software Updates
Mac
- Open System Settings.
- Select General.
- Select Software Update.
If an update is available, you'll see the option to install it now or schedule it to install later.
If your Mac is already up to date, you'll see your current macOS version and the date your device last checked for updates.
iPad
- Open the Settings app.
- Select General.
- Select Software Update.
If an update is available, install it or schedule it for later.
If your iPad is already up to date, you'll see a message that your software is current.
Windows
You can also select Update history to view previously installed updates.
Chrome OS
The current article includes only a screenshot and does not provide written instructions for checking updates.
Android
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Open the Settings app.
- Scroll to System or Software Update.
- Select the software update option.
Your device may check for updates automatically.
If it does not, select Check for updates.
If you need to update your software, the update needed will be listed and you can either upgrade it in the moment or schedule it to update overnight.
If you do not need to update your software, this page will only show what software you are running and when it was last checked.