Apple Releases Critical Updates for Legacy macOS Versions to Extend Certificate Support

Apple has released critical updates for older macOS versions, specifically macOS Big Sur 11.7.11 and Catalina Security Update 2026-001, to extend device activation certificates. These updates ensure that essential services like iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation continue to function through January 2027.

Released on February 2, 2026, these updates are crucial for users still running older Mac systems. Without these certificate extensions, affected services would stop working after the current certificates expire in early 2027.

What These Updates Include

These are highly targeted updates designed specifically to extend certificate support. They do not include new features, security patches, or bug fixes beyond the certificate extension functionality.

Certificate Extension Details

• Device Activation Certificates: Extended to remain valid through January 2027
• iMessage Support: Ensures continued messaging functionality
• FaceTime Support: Maintains video and audio calling capabilities
• Mac Activation: Allows proper device activation and re-activation

Why Certificate Extensions Are Necessary

Digital certificates are time-limited security credentials that verify the authenticity of services and secure communications. When certificates expire, the services that depend on them stop functioning properly.

What Happens Without This Update?

If you don't install these updates before the current certificates expire in early 2027, you may experience:

• Inability to send or receive iMessages
• FaceTime calls failing to connect
• Problems activating or re-activating your Mac
• Potential issues with other Apple services that rely on device certificates

Apple's Commitment to Legacy Systems

This update demonstrates Apple's continued support for older Mac systems, even those running operating systems that are no longer receiving regular security updates. By extending these certificates, Apple ensures that millions of Macs can continue using essential communication services.

Previous Certificate Extensions

Apple has released similar certificate extension updates in the past:

• 2023: Extended certificates for macOS High Sierra and Mojave
• 2022: Certificate updates for macOS Sierra and earlier
• These updates typically extend certificate validity by 1-2 years

Which macOS Versions Are Affected?

This update specifically applies to:

• macOS Big Sur 11: Released in November 2020, Big Sur was the first macOS version to support Apple Silicon Macs
• macOS Catalina 10.15: Released in October 2019, Catalina was the last version to support 32-bit apps

Should You Upgrade to a Newer macOS?

While these certificate extensions keep essential services working, there are several reasons to consider upgrading to a more modern macOS version:

Limitations of Staying on Big Sur or Catalina

• No Security Updates: Big Sur and Catalina no longer receive regular security patches for vulnerabilities
• App Compatibility: Many modern apps require macOS Monterey or newer
• Missing Features: Years of new features and improvements unavailable
• Performance: Newer macOS versions often run better, especially on Apple Silicon Macs
• Browser Support: Web browsers may eventually drop support for older macOS versions

Benefits of Upgrading

• Active Security Support: Regular security updates to protect against new threats
• New Features: Continuity improvements, redesigned apps, and system enhancements
• Better Performance: Optimizations for both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs
• Longer Support Timeline: Years of updates ahead

Parallel iOS, watchOS, and tvOS Updates

Apple also released certificate extension updates for older iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and tvOS versions on the same day:

• iOS 16: Minor update with iMessage fix
• iPadOS 16: Minor update with iMessage fix
• watchOS 10: Certificate extension for older Apple Watch models
• watchOS 9: Certificate extension for even older Apple Watch models
• tvOS: Updates for older Apple TV models

Installation Time and Process

These updates are relatively small and straightforward:

• Download Time: 5-10 minutes on typical broadband connections
• Installation Time: 10-15 minutes
• Restart Required: Yes, your Mac will restart once
• Data Loss Risk: None (but always maintain backups)

Verifying Installation

To confirm you've successfully installed the update:

1. Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner
2. Select About This Mac
3. Check your macOS version:
   • Should show macOS Big Sur 11.7.11 or later
   • Or macOS Catalina 10.15.7 with Security Update 2026-001

Troubleshooting Update Issues

If you're having trouble installing the update:

• Update Not Appearing: Wait a few hours as updates roll out gradually. Try clicking "Check for Updates" in Software Update
• Download Fails: Check your internet connection and try again
• Installation Fails: Ensure you have at least 15GB of free storage space
• Stuck During Install: Give it time - certificate updates can take 15-20 minutes

The Future of Legacy macOS Support

While Apple continues to provide these essential certificate updates for older macOS versions, support cannot continue indefinitely. Based on historical patterns:

• This may be one of the final updates for macOS Catalina
• Big Sur might receive one more certificate extension in 2027-2028
• Eventually, upgrading to a newer macOS version will be necessary

If your Mac is incompatible with newer macOS versions, consider planning for a hardware upgrade in the coming years to maintain full access to Apple services and security protection.