macOS Sonoma 14.8.3
Security Update with Essential Improvements
What's New in macOS Sonoma 14.8.3
macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 is an important security update that addresses 21 vulnerabilities across multiple system components. This update is part of Apple's coordinated December 2025 security release and is strongly recommended for all macOS Sonoma users to ensure optimal security and system stability.
Security Fixes (21 vulnerabilities addressed)
- Improved Bounds Checks: Enhanced validation to prevent out-of-bounds access vulnerabilities
- Permissions Restrictions: Strengthened permission controls to prevent unauthorized access
- File Handling: Fixed issues related to file operations that could be exploited
- Input Validation: Improved input validation across system services
- Privacy Improvements: Enhanced privacy protections and data handling
- WebKit Security: Addressed security issues in the web rendering engine
- System Services: Patches for various system service vulnerabilities
Safari 17.8.3
This update includes Safari 17.8.3 with important security improvements and enhanced web browsing protection.
Important Notes
- This is a security-focused update with no new features or user-facing changes
- Addresses 21 security vulnerabilities across system components
- Released concurrently with macOS Tahoe 26.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.7.3
- Compatible with all Macs running macOS Sonoma 14.x
- Recommended for immediate installation to maintain system security
System Requirements
macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 maintains the same system requirements as macOS Sonoma 14.0:
Compatible Mac Models
- iMac: 2019 and later
- iMac Pro: 2017
- MacBook Air: 2018 and later
- MacBook Pro: 2018 and later
- Mac Pro: 2019 and later
- Mac Studio: All models (2022 and later)
- Mac mini: 2018 and later
This includes both Intel-based and Apple Silicon Macs from the years mentioned above.
How to Update
- Back up your Mac using Time Machine or your preferred backup solution
- Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner
- Select "System Settings" (or "System Preferences" on older Sonoma versions)
- Click on "General" in the sidebar
- Select "Software Update"
- Click "Update Now" when macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 appears
- Enter your administrator password if prompted
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation
- Your Mac will restart to finalize the update
Known Issues
As of the release date, no significant known issues have been reported with macOS Sonoma 14.8.3. Apple has thoroughly tested this security update, and it is safe to install on all compatible Macs.
If You Experience Issues
While issues are rare with security updates, if you encounter any problems:
- Restart your Mac to resolve temporary glitches
- Ensure all third-party applications are up to date
- Reset NVRAM/PRAM if you experience boot issues
- Check our troubleshooting guide for detailed solutions
- Contact Apple Support if problems persist
Should You Upgrade to a Newer macOS?
While macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 continues to receive security updates, you may want to consider upgrading to a newer macOS version for additional features and longer-term support:
- macOS Sequoia 15.x: If your Mac is compatible, Sequoia offers improved performance and newer features
- macOS Tahoe 26.x: The latest macOS with Liquid Glass design (requires newer Mac models)
Check the Update Tracker to see which macOS versions are compatible with your Mac.
Related Updates
The following updates were released simultaneously on December 12, 2025:
- macOS Tahoe 26.2 - Security update for Tahoe users
- macOS Sequoia 15.7.3 - Security update for Sequoia users
- iOS 17.8.3 - iPhone security update
- iPadOS 17.8.3 - iPad security update
- watchOS 10.8.3 - Apple Watch security update
- tvOS 17.8.3 - Apple TV security update
- Safari 17.8.3 - Standalone Safari update
For complete security details, visit Apple's security content page for macOS Sonoma 14.8.3.