Apple has released macOS 15.7.5 build 24G624 and macOS 14.8.5 build 23J423 for Macs that are staying on older software branches. The updates arrived alongside macOS 26.4, giving users on Sequoia 15 and Sonoma 14 a new security update without forcing a jump to the newest major version.
This is the kind of update that matters for people who want to keep their current setup stable, whether that is because of app compatibility, work requirements, or simple preference. Apple lists both releases as available on March 24, 2026, and describes macOS 15.7.5 as an update with important security fixes that it recommends for all users. The Sonoma 14.8.5 security page also confirms a long list of patched issues in core system areas.
Don’t miss the best of The Mac Observer
Set us as a preferred source and our Apple reporting ranks higher in your Google Search results and Discover feed — one tap, no account changes.
If you are still using an older supported Mac, this is the update to install. Apple has not framed these releases around new features. Instead, the focus is clearly on security, privacy, and system protection across older Macs.
How to update in short steps
- Open System Settings
- Click General
- Select Software Update
- Wait for your Mac to check for available updates
- Choose macOS 15.7.5 or macOS 14.8.5, depending on your device
- Click Update Now and let the installation finish
Before you update, it is still smart to back up your Mac. That gives you a safety net in case something goes wrong during installation.
All the Changes
These updates are mainly about security, so there is no big headline feature list this time. Here is what they appear to focus on:
- Important security fixes for older Macs that are still on macOS 15 and macOS 14.
- Fixes for networking and authentication issues, including 802.1X.
- Patches for privacy and data access problems affecting items such as Accounts, Clipboard, Mail, iCloud, and Messages.
- Fixes for kernel, file system, sandbox, and privilege escalation vulnerabilities that could affect overall system security.
- Updates for open source components and other low-level frameworks used by macOS.
For most users, the simple takeaway is clear. If your Mac is still on Sequoia 15 or Sonoma 14, these releases help keep your device protected while letting you stay on your current version.
Let us know in the comments if you have already installed macOS 15.7.5 or macOS 14.8.5, and whether you noticed anything else after updating.

15.7.5 has broken WiFi sync between my Mac and iPhone. The iPhone simply no longer appears in macOS finder unless connected by USB cable.
The 15.7.6 beta is available
15.7.5 Broke outgoing email on most of my IMAP accounts. Had to turn OFF automatically manage connection settings, and fix the Port # (should be 587, not 25 for TLS/SSL) and fix Authentication selection on some IMAP accounts. My Gmail account had its SMTP server completely disassociated from the account. So when I went to send, there was no SMTP server, and I had to select my “Google” SMTP server from my list of available servers. NORMALLY it’s the iOS updates that break IMAP mail, but iOS 26.4 seems fine.