macOS 26.7 won't update to 26.7.1

macOS 26.7 won't update to 26.7.1. Twice this morning I've tried to update macOS 26.7 to 26.7.1 on an external SSD connected to my MacBook Neo and, each time, the system seems to be installing, reboots, and then goes right back to 26.7. Does anyone know what might be going on here? I haven't had any problems with updating the internal drive (which is currently running 27.0.1).

MacBook Neo 13″

Posted on Sep 29, 2026 7:25 AM

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4 replies

Sep 29, 2026 11:47 AM in response to rranger

Stunning! I just completed the update and - just for the heck of it - switched the connection on the USB-C dock from USB-A to the very fast USB-C port (with a connector), and the performance is bordering on the native SSD inside the Neo. I'm amazed! This is great and thanks again for the help. It was great appreciated. Now I can decide whether to wear down my external drive or the internal one at will! As an aside, though lots of people complain about Tahoe, I think it's just fine and it has the added benefit of not having 10s of GBs of AI overhead!

Sep 30, 2026 10:50 AM in response to rranger

I was on 26.6.2 and twice attempted to upgrade an Intel MacPro to 26.7.1 - first time left machine off. After power up it was still at 26.6.2. Second attempt brought it to sign into your Apple account screen. After that and pressing continue a Welcome screen appeared but no ability to proceed. I disconnected one external display but left one connected and now I see a tiny spinning wheel but still on welcome. It’s been 10min so I will likely have to unplug power and hope for the best. macOS updates are becoming scarily unreliable for me. A prior 26.6.1 update left the firmware controlling power button broken and I had to bring the unit into Genius Bar for them to reflash it. YMMV.

macOS 26.7 won't update to 26.7.1

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