You can make a difference in the Apple Support Community!

When you sign up with your Apple Account, you can provide valuable feedback to other community members by upvoting helpful replies and User Tips.

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

although my imac is compatible with the big sur update it isnt appearing in the system preferences window.

my mac isnt showing the big sur update in system preferences which is required for my new hp printer to be set up


Posted on Jan 19, 2021 12:12 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 19, 2021 12:59 PM

It's the definition, Big Sur is an Upgrade if you're on 10.15 or less, Updates are like 10.14.5 to 10.14.6, or 10.15.0 to 10.5.7. :)


macOS Big Sur - Technical Specifications


General Requirements

  • OS X 10.9 or later
  • 4GB of memory
  • 35.5GB available storage on macOS Sierra or later*
  • Some features require an Apple ID; terms apply.
  • Some features require a compatible internet service provider; fees may apply.

Mac Hardware Requirements

For details about your Mac model, click the Apple icon at the top left of your screen and choose About This Mac. These Mac models are compatible with macOS Big Sur:

  • MacBook (2015 or later)
  • MacBook Air (2013 or later)
  • MacBook Pro (Late 2013 or later)
  • Mac mini (2014 or later)
  • iMac (2014 or later)
  • iMac Pro (2017 or later)
  • Mac Pro (2013 or later)

Learn about compatibility and how to identify your specific Mac model

Don't use FireFox or WaterFox for this link. it'll mess it up...

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/macos-big-sur/id1526878132?ls=1&mt=12


1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 19, 2021 12:59 PM in response to vroom163

It's the definition, Big Sur is an Upgrade if you're on 10.15 or less, Updates are like 10.14.5 to 10.14.6, or 10.15.0 to 10.5.7. :)


macOS Big Sur - Technical Specifications


General Requirements

  • OS X 10.9 or later
  • 4GB of memory
  • 35.5GB available storage on macOS Sierra or later*
  • Some features require an Apple ID; terms apply.
  • Some features require a compatible internet service provider; fees may apply.

Mac Hardware Requirements

For details about your Mac model, click the Apple icon at the top left of your screen and choose About This Mac. These Mac models are compatible with macOS Big Sur:

  • MacBook (2015 or later)
  • MacBook Air (2013 or later)
  • MacBook Pro (Late 2013 or later)
  • Mac mini (2014 or later)
  • iMac (2014 or later)
  • iMac Pro (2017 or later)
  • Mac Pro (2013 or later)

Learn about compatibility and how to identify your specific Mac model

Don't use FireFox or WaterFox for this link. it'll mess it up...

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/macos-big-sur/id1526878132?ls=1&mt=12


although my imac is compatible with the big sur update it isnt appearing in the system preferences window.

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.