Mac Mini 2010 Software Update Issue
Firmware updates aren't installed automatically alongside macOS on Mac Pro (Mid 2010) and Mac Pro (Mid 2012), unlike other Mac models. Follow these steps to ensure that your Mac Pro receives any available firmware updates when you update or reinstall macOS.
The mid-2010 15-inch MacBook Pro was a lovely machine-unless you had one with a defective video card. Chris Breen offers workarounds and a link to the Big Fix. This update contains all the applicable fixes from the Mac OS X 10.6.4 Update, plus the following specific fixes for iMac (Mid 2010): Resolves compatibility and performance-related graphics issues.
If you've tried to reinstall macOS on these models using macOS Recovery and see the screen that says a firmware update is required, learn what to do.
Get firmware updates after updating macOS
First, use the App Store app to update the software on your Mac. After the update is complete:
- Choose Apple () menu > App Store. Search for macOS. Click the result for the current version of macOS, then click Get to start the download.
- The installer downloads to your Applications folder and opens when it's complete. If it doesn't launch automatically, find Install macOS in your Applications folder and double-click to open it.
- Click Continue.
- If your Mac needs a firmware update, you see this screen:
- Follow the on-screen instructions to apply the firmware update.
Get firmware updates before reinstalling macOS
To reinstall macOS completely on Mac Pro (Mid 2010) and Mac Pro (Mid 2012), you need to run the installer twice: once to update the firmware, and a second time to reinstall macOS. Follow these steps:
- Choose Apple menu > App Store. Search for macOS. Click the result for the current version of macOS, then click Get to start the download.
- The installer downloads to your Applications folder and opens when it's complete. If it doesn't launch automatically, find Install macOS in your Applications folder and double-click to open it.
- Click Continue.
- If your Mac needs a firmware update, you see this screen:
- Follow the on-screen instructions to apply the firmware update.
- When the firmware update process completes and your Mac starts up, open Install macOS again and follow the on-screen instructions to install macOS.
Using macOS Recovery on these Mac models
Mac Mini 2010 Software Update Issues
If you try to reinstall macOS using macOS Recovery on Mac Pro (Mid 2010) and Mac Pro (Mid 2012), you might see an alert that a firmware update is required to install macOS. Follow these steps to complete the installation:
- Click Shut Down. If your Mac Pro doesn't shut down on its own, press and hold the power button to turn it off.
- Hold the power button until the power indicator light flashes or you hear a long tone. A grey screen with an Apple logo and progress bar appear. When the update is complete, your Mac Pro starts up.
- Restart your Mac Pro, then immediately hold down Option-Command-R to reinstall macOS. You shouldn't be asked to install firmware again.
Check compatibility
You can upgrade to macOS High Sierra from OS X Mountain Lion or later on any of the following Mac models. Your Mac also needs at least 2GB of memory and 14.3GB of available storage space.
MacBook introduced in late 2009 or later
MacBook Air introduced in late 2010 or later
MacBook Pro introduced in mid 2010 or later
Mac mini introduced in mid 2010 or later
iMac introduced in late 2009 or later
Mac Pro introduced in mid 2010 or later
To find your Mac model, memory, storage space, and macOS version, choose About This Mac from the Apple menu . If your Mac isn't compatible with macOS High Sierra, the installer will let you know.
Make a backup
Before installing any upgrade, it’s a good idea to back up your Mac. Time Machine makes it simple, and other backup methods are also available. Learn how to back up your Mac.
Get connected
It takes time to download and install macOS, so make sure that you have a reliable Internet connection. If you're using a Mac notebook computer, plug it into AC power.
Download macOS High Sierra
For the strongest security and latest features, find out whether you can upgrade to macOS Catalina, the latest version of the Mac operating system.
If you still need macOS High Sierra, use this App Store link: Get macOS High Sierra.
Begin installation
After downloading, the installer opens automatically.
Click Continue and follow the onscreen instructions. You might find it easiest to begin installation in the evening so that it can complete overnight, if needed.
Mac Mini 2012 Software Update
If the installer asks for permission to install a helper tool, enter the administrator name and password that you use to log in to your Mac, then click Add Helper.
Allow installation to complete
Please allow installation to complete without putting your Mac to sleep or closing its lid. Your Mac might restart, show a progress bar, or show a blank screen several times as it installs both macOS and related updates to your Mac firmware.
Learn more
Mac Mini Software Update Problems
- If you have hardware or software that isn't compatible with High Sierra, you might be able to install an earlier macOS, such as Sierra or El Capitan.
- macOS High Sierra won't install on top of a later version of macOS, but you can erase your disk first or install on another disk.
- You can use macOS Recovery to reinstall macOS.