How to Use Nudge to Update Your Mac

Tags apple macos

Quick Steps

  1. Save your work and plug in power.

  2. In Nudge, click Update Device (top‑right).

  3. System Settings opens to Software Update.

  4. Click Update Now (or Upgrade Now), enter your password if asked, and allow the restart.

  5. If you still have time left in your deferral period, you may choose Defer instead (see below).

Update Now (Recommended)

Use this when you’re ready to update.

  1. In the Nudge window, select Update Device (button is in the top‑right of Nudge).

    Nudge window with the Update Device button circled in the top‑right. Clicking this opens Software Update.Nudge window with the Update Device button circled in the top‑right. Clicking this opens Software Update.

  2. System Settings → General → Software Update opens with the required macOS update.

  3. Choose Update Now (or Upgrade Now if a major version). Keep the Mac on power and connected to the internet until the update completes.

Tip: You can keep working during the download. When the installer is ready, you’ll be prompted to restart.

In Software Update: Upgrade vs. Update (and "Tonight")

Use this screenshot to choose the right action:

Software Update showing Upgrade Now/Update Now and Tonight circled for both a major upgrade and a minor update.Software Update showing Upgrade Now/Update Now and Tonight circled for both a major upgrade and a minor update.

  • Upgrade Now → Moves to the next major macOS version.

  • Update Now → Installs a minor update and keeps you on your current supported macOS version.

  • Tonight → Schedules the selected option for later.

Defer (Only if You’re Within the Deferral Period)

If your deferral time hasn’t run out, Nudge shows a deferral option. Use it when you need a little more time before updating.

  1. After reading the Important Notes, click I understand in the Nudge window.

    Nudge window with the Defer option circled. Choose a reminder interval to postpone temporarily.Nudge window with the Defer option circled. Choose a reminder interval to postpone temporarily.

  2. Click Defer in the Nudge window.

  3. Choose when to be reminded again.

  4. Nudge will close and remind you at the selected time.

Important: Deferral is temporary. Once the deadline is reached, deferral is not available.

After the Deadline

  • The deferral option is disabled.

  • Nudge will reappear frequently and may block your screen until you start the update.

  • Click Update Device and complete the update to clear the message.

Troubleshooting

  • Low disk space: Free up storage and try again.

  • Download is slow: Stay on power and keep your Mac online; large updates can take time.

  • Installer asks to restart repeatedly: Let it finish. Some updates require multiple restarts.

  • Still stuck? Contact the IT Help Desk.

FAQ

Why am I seeing Nudge?
Your Mac requires a macOS update to stay secure and compatible.

Can I postpone?
Yes, but only if you still have deferral time remaining. (See the above screenshot for where to look and see how long you have remaining.)

What does “Update Device” do?
It takes you directly to Software Update so you can start the required update.

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