Apple’s macOS (previously called Mac OS X and OS X) has evolved massively since its first public release in 2001. Over the years, macOS has brought design overhauls, performance improvements, and brand-new features that shaped the modern Mac experience.
Complete list of all macOS versions from 2001 to 2025 — including release date, version number, and highlights — so you can track the history of Apple’s desktop operating system.
macOS Versions List (2001–2025)
| Year | macOS Version Name | Version Number | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 | Mac OS X 10.0 “Cheetah” | 10.0 | Aqua interface, dock, improved stability |
| 2001 | Mac OS X 10.1 “Puma” | 10.1 | Performance boost, faster menus, DVD playback |
| 2002 | Mac OS X 10.2 “Jaguar” | 10.2 | Quartz Extreme graphics, iChat, Address Book |
| 2003 | Mac OS X 10.3 “Panther” | 10.3 | Exposé, FileVault, Fast User Switching |
| 2005 | Mac OS X 10.4 “Tiger” | 10.4 | Spotlight search, Dashboard widgets |
| 2007 | Mac OS X 10.5 “Leopard” | 10.5 | Time Machine, Spaces, 64-bit support |
| 2009 | Mac OS X 10.6 “Snow Leopard” | 10.6 | Smaller footprint, better performance |
| 2011 | Mac OS X 10.7 “Lion” | 10.7 | Launchpad, full-screen apps, Auto Save |
| 2012 | OS X 10.8 “Mountain Lion” | 10.8 | Notification Center, Messages app |
| 2013 | OS X 10.9 “Mavericks” | 10.9 | Free upgrade, improved battery life |
| 2014 | OS X 10.10 “Yosemite” | 10.10 | Flat design, Continuity, Handoff |
| 2015 | OS X 10.11 “El Capitan” | 10.11 | Split View, Metal graphics |
| 2016 | macOS 10.12 “Sierra” | 10.12 | Siri on Mac, Apple Pay support |
| 2017 | macOS 10.13 “High Sierra” | 10.13 | APFS file system, HEVC video |
| 2018 | macOS 10.14 “Mojave” | 10.14 | Dark Mode, Dynamic Desktop |
| 2019 | macOS 10.15 “Catalina” | 10.15 | Sidecar, 32-bit app removal |
| 2020 | macOS 11 “Big Sur” | 11.0 | Major UI redesign, Control Center |
| 2021 | macOS 12 “Monterey” | 12.0 | Universal Control, Shortcuts |
| 2022 | macOS 13 “Ventura” | 13.0 | Stage Manager, Continuity Camera |
| 2023 | macOS 14 “Sonoma” | 14.0 | Desktop widgets, game mode |
| 2024 | macOS 15 “Sequoia” | 15.0 | iPhone mirroring, window tiling |
| 2025 | macOS 16 (Expected) | 16.0 | Rumored AI features, improved multitasking |
- 2001–2011: Mac OS X branding
- 2012–2015: OS X branding
- 2016–present: macOS branding
Apple rebranded to macOS in 2016 to align with iOS, watchOS, and tvOS naming conventions.
How Often Does Apple Release macOS Updates?
Apple typically releases a new macOS version every year, usually in September or October, alongside new Mac hardware announcements.
Key Takeaways
- macOS has evolved for over 24 years with regular yearly updates.
- Major features include Aqua UI, Spotlight, Dark Mode, Control Center, and Stage Manager.
- The 2025 release is expected to bring AI-powered enhancements for productivity.
FAQs
Q1: What is the latest macOS version in 2025?
A: As of early 2025, macOS Sequoia (15) is the latest public release. macOS 16 is expected in September 2025.
Q2: Can I upgrade from older macOS directly to the latest version?
A: Usually yes, but compatibility depends on your Mac model and year.
Q3: Which macOS is best for older Macs?
A: macOS High Sierra and Mojave are often considered stable for older hardware.