Mac (sometimes) notifies the non-admin user of an update, but not admin user

I have a Mac with one sign-in as an admin and one sign-in as a non-admin. For many years, the non-admin user will get a notice that one or more apps are ready for an update from the App Store, but as an admin user, no such notice appears. Just today, the non-admin got CapCut, Amazon Prime, and WhatsApp notifications sent to the non-admin account only.

This is not for EVERY update -- it's just once in a while -- but still, how can this happen? And even stranger is that this has been happening with me for many years, and many Macs. I just never asked about it until now!

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 15.5

Posted on Jun 11, 2025 1:25 PM

Similar questions

2 replies

Jun 11, 2025 1:38 PM in response to Tim Murray2

I think that it is the fact that he gets on the computer first, and clears the system notification.

Tim Murray2 Author

Level 1

122 points

Jun 11, 2025 5:54 PM in response to Gandolf243

There is only one user. Me. I can spend the day on the usual admin side of house, then the moment I log in as the non-admin, the notifications appear.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Mac (sometimes) notifies the non-admin user of an update, but not admin user

Welcome to Apple Support Community

A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.

Learn more Sign up