Unable to download app in MacBook as it is not up to date with macOS

Q-Jesko wrote:

Yes I understood that part, system settings is really system preferences. that is where I searched for an update and got no response. does this mean I currently have Monterey or Ventura since it has the name “system preferences”?

If it says System Preferences, you're definitely not running Ventura or Sonoma. I wasn't sure if the name change was in Monterey or in Ventura. A search revealed that it was in Ventura.

OWC Rocket Yard Blog – How macOS Ventura's System Settings Differs from the Previous System Preferences

Q-Jesko wrote:

when I chose to install the app a pop up appears saying it can’t be installed on macintosh HD because macOS version 12 or later is required.

That MacBook Pro originally shipped with Catalina, so could be running Catalina or Big Sur now. As long as you are using either, trying to install an application that requires Monterey or later would result in the error. However, your Mac is compatible with Monterey, Ventura, and Sonoma. You can upgrade free of charge.

If you want the Sonoma upgrade, you should be able to download it from System Settings > Software Update – or from the App Store. If you would rather stay back on Monterey or Ventura, you can get them using the App Store links in this Support article:

How to download and install macOS - Apple Support

I would suggest backing up your Mac, then going for Ventura or Sonoma. Once you have upgraded macOS, you can retry installing the application in question.

Edit: You can also try downloading the macOS installer by using links in this Apple article:

How to download and install macOS - Apple Support

Try restarting the Mac to see if that makes any difference.

If not, then try booting into Safe Mode to see if that allows Software Update to finish processing. If this works, then it indicates you may have some third party software installed that is interfering with the normal operation of macOS.

Sometimes I have seen Software Update get stuck due to issues with Apple's servers, so waiting a bit and trying again may sometimes get you past this part.

You can try deleting the Software Update .plist file located in "/Library/Preferences/com.apple.SoftwareUpdate.plist". After deleting the file and emptying the Trash, reboot the computer to see if that makes any difference.

Servant of Cats wrote:

If you want the Sonoma upgrade, you should be able to download it from System Settings > Software Update – or from the App Store.

Since you're running Catalina or Big Sur, I should have said System Preferences. "Preferences" is the long-time name, but Apple changed it in Monterey or Ventura, to make the Mac a bit more like the iPhone.

Q-Jesko wrote:

Someone help me out, I have a 2020 13-inch 4 thunderbolt 3 port MacBook Pro and I am unable to install an app I want due to my Mac book not being up to date with macOS 12.0... very frustrating.

(For future reference, this probably should have been a new post, rather than "hitchhiking" onto the original question).

If I read your question correctly, you're on MacOS 12.0 on your 2020 13" MacBook Pro? Your Mac is compatible with MacOS 14.4.1 (Sonoma). Is the question you have that you're unable to update your MacOS, or is it that a particular app won't install?