macOS Sonoma 14.3
macOS Sonoma 14.3 was released January 22, 2025 with Apple Intelligence enhancements, improved Handoff functionality, and security updates.
Download & Install
Terminal Installation
For advanced users, you can use Terminal to download and install:
softwareupdate --list
softwareupdate --install --recommendedRelease Timeline
macOS Sonoma 14.3 (Current)
Released January 22, 2025
Build: 23D56
Release Notes
What's New in macOS Sonoma 14.3
-
Apple Intelligence Enhancements
Expanded capabilities for writing tools and summaries across the system. New context-aware suggestions in Mail, Notes, and Pages.
-
Improved Handoff
Enhanced Handoff between Mac and iPhone/iPad with faster transfers and more reliable connections.
-
Freeform Collaboration
New collaboration features in Freeform app with real-time editing and improved drawing tools.
-
Music App Updates
Redesigned playlist creation interface and improved library organization options.
Bug Fixes
- Fixes an issue where external displays might not wake from sleep properly
- Resolves a problem where AirDrop transfers could fail between Mac and iOS devices
- Addresses an issue with Bluetooth audio devices disconnecting during calls
- Fixes Calendar sync issues with some third-party services
- Resolves an issue with PDF previews not displaying correctly in Finder
Security Updates
This update addresses several security vulnerabilities:
| CVE ID | Component | Description |
|---|---|---|
| CVE-2025-21123 | Kernel | A memory corruption issue that could lead to arbitrary code execution with kernel privileges |
| CVE-2025-21124 | WebKit | A vulnerability that could allow maliciously crafted web content to execute arbitrary code |
| CVE-2025-21125 | Bluetooth | An issue where a nearby attacker could potentially intercept Bluetooth traffic |
| CVE-2025-21126 | Neural Engine | A vulnerability that could allow an app to execute arbitrary code with system privileges |
| CVE-2025-21127 | CoreAudio | A buffer overflow that could lead to arbitrary code execution |
For more details on these security updates, visit Apple's security updates page.
Compatibility
macOS Sonoma 14.3 is compatible with these Mac models:
MacBook Pro
- 2018 and later models
MacBook Air
- 2018 and later models
iMac
- 2019 and later models
iMac Pro
- 2017 and later models
Mac Mini
- 2018 and later models
Mac Pro
- 2019 and later models
Mac Studio
- 2022 and later models
Not sure if your Mac is compatible? Use our Compatibility Checker to find out.
Common Issues & Fixes
This error typically occurs due to insufficient storage space or a corrupted download.
- Check your available storage space (need at least 20GB free)
- Restart your Mac and try again
- Download the update again from System Settings > Software Update
- If the problem persists, try using the Terminal commands shown above
For more detailed help, see our guide: Fixing macOS Update Installation Errors
This is a common issue that can be fixed with the following steps:
- Force restart your Mac (hold power button for 10 seconds)
- Boot into Safe Mode (hold Shift key while starting up)
- Try updating from Safe Mode
- If unsuccessful, download the full installer instead
For a complete walkthrough, see: Stuck on "Preparing Update" Fix
Some users report increased battery consumption after updating. This is often temporary as the system reindexes and optimizes:
- Allow up to 48 hours for background tasks to complete
- Check which apps are using energy in System Settings > Battery
- Reset SMC if battery issues persist after 2 days
- Ensure all apps are updated to versions compatible with macOS 14.3
Learn more: How to Improve Battery Life in macOS
If external displays aren't working properly after the update:
- Check all connections and try different cables if available
- Reset the display connection by unplugging for 30 seconds, then reconnecting
- Reset NVRAM/PRAM (restart and hold Option+Command+P+R for 20 seconds)
- Check display settings to ensure the correct resolution is selected
- For DisplayLink devices, ensure you have the latest drivers installed
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