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How to update my MacBook Air?

Hi, I am using a MacBook Air- macOS High Sierra- version 10.13.6

I have noticed that The laptop software is not getting updated; or, I do not get any notification for OS update since sometime.

Another issue is that the laptop camera is not getting activated in FaceTime or Photo Booth or for webinar meetings.

I would like to get some help in these issues.



[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Posted on Jul 20, 2021 10:26 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jul 20, 2021 10:51 AM

Updates and Upgrades are different. The last update for 10.13.6 happened November 11, 2020.

Upgrades are hardware dependent. Check first of Mojave can be installed on your Mac.


The fact the camera does not even work for Photobooth, suggests there is in fact something wrong with the camera itself.

I would try Photobooth while booted in safe mode (holding the shift key). It will be slow to boot, but it will eliminate third party software confusion.


6 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jul 20, 2021 10:51 AM in response to indira241

Updates and Upgrades are different. The last update for 10.13.6 happened November 11, 2020.

Upgrades are hardware dependent. Check first of Mojave can be installed on your Mac.


The fact the camera does not even work for Photobooth, suggests there is in fact something wrong with the camera itself.

I would try Photobooth while booted in safe mode (holding the shift key). It will be slow to boot, but it will eliminate third party software confusion.


Aug 4, 2021 8:24 AM in response to patatr

Computers that old can have damage on the cable that leads up to the camera. Photobooth is a pretty generic software that should work. Apple menu -> About This Mac tells us the age of the computer.


If the machine is between mid-2010 and early 2011, you'll need to ensure the proper firmware is installed before doing anything:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT202313


Backup your data.


If you were able to install the firmware because you had the right edition, or a newer Mac, run command-option-shift-R to install the original system that came with your Mac on startup. Use Disk Utility to format the drive HFS Extended Journalled before running the installer.


Early 2010 and older Macs you'll want a 10.6.3 retail installer that looks like:


With an Apple or http://www.macsales.com/ DVD burner that uses USB 3.0 or earlier if you are missing the USB flash that shipped with your computer. Use Disk Utility to format the drive HFS Extended Journalled before running the installer.

Boot using the Option key the DVD for Snow Leopard.


Once you have installed the original OS or Snow Leopard retail, try running Photobooth again. If it still fails, you have a hardware issue with the computer making the camera fail. Logitech has some good Mac compatible webcams like the C615.


Upgrading back your OS to High Sierra is covered here. You may need to install 10.7 first.


How to update my MacBook Air?

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