How to Update Safari on Mac (2025) – Fast & Easy Guide!
Keeping your browser up to date is essential for security, performance, and compatibility with the latest web technologies. If you’re looking for How to update Safari on Mac, this guide will walk you through the process step by step. Whether you’re using macOS Monterey, Big Sur, Catalina, or an earlier version, updating Safari ensures a seamless and safe browsing experience. Let’s explore how to check your Safari version update, update it, and troubleshoot common update issues.
What is Safari in Mac?
Safari is Apple’s default web browser for macOS, known for its speed, security, and energy efficiency. It is deeply integrated with the Apple ecosystem, offering features like iCloud Keychain, Intelligent Tracking Prevention, and Apple Pay integration. Unlike other browsers, Safari is updated through macOS updates, rather than as a standalone app in the App Store.
Key Features of Safari:
- Privacy & Security: Intelligent Tracking Prevention blocks cross-site tracking.
- Performance: Faster and more energy-efficient than competitors.
- Integration: Works seamlessly with Apple devices using Handoff, iCloud, and AirDrop.
- Extensions: Supports a variety of Safari Extensions for added functionality.
How to Check the Current Safari Version on Mac?
Before updating Safari, it’s essential to know which version you’re currently running. Here’s how:
- Open Safari on your Mac.
- Click Safari in the top-left corner of the menu bar.
- Select About Safari.
- A pop-up window will display the current Safari version update installed on your Mac.
Now that you know your version, you can determine whether an update for Safari compatibility with macOS is available based on your macOS version.
How to Update Safari on Your Mac with macOS High Sierra or Earlier
If you’re running macOS High Sierra (10.13) or earlier, updating Safari follows a different process compared to newer macOS versions.
Steps to Update Safari:
- Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner.
- Select App Store.
- Go to the Updates tab.
- If a Safari version update is available, click Update.
- Restart your Mac after the update is complete.
For macOS Mojave (10.14) and later, Safari updates are bundled with system updates, so you’ll need to update your Mac browser update.
How to Update Safari on macOS Mojave, Catalina, Big Sur, and Later
For macOS Mojave (10.14) and newer, Safari updates are included with system updates.
Steps to Update Safari:
- Click on the Apple menu () in the top-left corner.
- Select System Preferences.
- Click Software Update.
- If an update is available, click Update Now.
- Once the update is complete, restart your Mac.
Safari will be updated to the latest Safari for Mac compatible with your macOS version.
What to Do If Your Mac No Longer Supports Safari Updates?
If your Mac is no longer receiving Safari updates, you have a few options:
Option 1: Upgrade to a Newer macOS (If Compatible)
- Check if your Mac supports an upgrade to a newer macOS version.
- Go to System Preferences > Software Update.
- If a newer macOS version is available, install it to receive the latest Safari for Mac.
Option 2: Use an Alternative Browser
If your Mac is too old for macOS updates, consider switching to a browser that still receives updates, such as:
- Google Chrome
- Mozilla Firefox
- Microsoft Edge
These browsers offer up-to-date security patches and support for modern web standards.
How to Enable Automatic Safari Updates on Your Mac?
To ensure you always have the latest Safari for Mac version without manually checking for updates, enable automatic updates.
Steps to Enable Auto-Updates:
- Open System Preferences from the Apple menu.
- Click Software Update.
- Check the box for Automatically keep my Mac up to date.
- Click Advanced and select Install system data files and security updates.
This setting ensures Mac browser update automatically along with other system updates.
How to Update Apps with CleanMyMac?
CleanMyMac is a powerful tool for maintaining your Mac, including updating applications.
Steps to Update Safari Using CleanMyMac:
- Download and install CleanMyMac X.
- Open CleanMyMac and navigate to Updater.
- Select Safari (if an update is available).
- Click Update.
- Restart your Mac for changes to take effect.
CleanMyMac also helps with removing outdated system junk, optimizing performance, and ensuring security.
Read Also: How to Check Battery Cycles on MacBook
Case Study: Updating Safari on macOS Catalina 10.15.7
Problem:
A user running macOS Catalina 10.15.7 found that their online bank no longer supported their Safari version 15.6.1. However, no updates were available in Software Update or the App Store. Check here.
Solution:
Since macOS Catalina does not support Safari 16 or later, the best solutions were:
- Upgrading to macOS Big Sur (if compatible) to get the latest Safari for Mac.
- Switching to Google Chrome or Firefox to maintain online banking compatibility.
✅ Pro Tip: If your online banking requires a newer browser, always check the official support pages for browser compatibility.
Conclusion
Keeping Safari update on Mac ensures security, performance, and access to the latest web features. If your Mac no longer supports Safari updates, upgrading macOS or switching to an alternative browser is the best solution. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure safe and smooth web browsing on your Mac.
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