How do I resolve the 'Finding Update' issue and install a newer macOS version?

I've been running on 10.15.7 for far too long, and programs aren't working for me. It's iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2019), so think I should able to update.


I've been stuck in this "finding update" screen in software updates for ~30 minutes, with no next steps. How do I get a newer OS to install? Thx!




[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iMac 27″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Mar 3, 2025 7:31 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Mar 4, 2025 1:16 AM

If the computer has the latest version of macOS 10.15 Catalina plus all the additional Security Updates.


The Software update will not find any newer version of Catalina as there are no more updates being offered


To upGrade to anything newer


You will need to use a special link that will point to the Apple Apps Store where you can upGrade this computer


The below links will help identify which version of macOS  this computer may Qualifies to run.


From what I see, this computer can run any version of macOS including the Latest offers from Apple >> MacOS 15 Sequoia


Safari will open a redirect and open the Apple Store where the download can commence.


Suggest having at least 50 GB of Empty Space on the drive.


It will allow the Full Version ( about 12.xx GB ) to download, then expand and then commence to install.


If there is Third Party Security Software installed - remove it.


It will interfere with both the download and installation process.


macOS Sequoia compatible Computers 


macOS Sonoma is compatible with these computers


Computer Qualifying for macOS 13 Ventura 


Computer Qualify for the Monterey upgrade


macOS Big Sur 11 hardware requirements


Always make a Time Machine Backup  before doing any upGrades 


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4 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Mar 4, 2025 1:16 AM in response to kwd510

If the computer has the latest version of macOS 10.15 Catalina plus all the additional Security Updates.


The Software update will not find any newer version of Catalina as there are no more updates being offered


To upGrade to anything newer


You will need to use a special link that will point to the Apple Apps Store where you can upGrade this computer


The below links will help identify which version of macOS  this computer may Qualifies to run.


From what I see, this computer can run any version of macOS including the Latest offers from Apple >> MacOS 15 Sequoia


Safari will open a redirect and open the Apple Store where the download can commence.


Suggest having at least 50 GB of Empty Space on the drive.


It will allow the Full Version ( about 12.xx GB ) to download, then expand and then commence to install.


If there is Third Party Security Software installed - remove it.


It will interfere with both the download and installation process.


macOS Sequoia compatible Computers 


macOS Sonoma is compatible with these computers


Computer Qualifying for macOS 13 Ventura 


Computer Qualify for the Monterey upgrade


macOS Big Sur 11 hardware requirements


Always make a Time Machine Backup  before doing any upGrades 


Mar 4, 2025 1:24 AM in response to kwd510

Be aware, this machine appears to have only 8 GB of RAM Ann not sure if the configuration has or does not have a Fusion Drive


8 GB of RAM is the bare minimum to operate anything in the newer version of macOS


As for if the drive is the Fusion Drive that took could be a negative factor when it comes to Performance


Yes, fusion drives are good for extra storage but less so for performance and again for running anything newer that Catalina


It seems all the newer version like Big Sur mcOS 11 and above are designed for an ALL SSD configuration


Just saying

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How do I resolve the 'Finding Update' issue and install a newer macOS version?

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