Apple has released third release candidates (RC3) for macOS Sequoia 15.7.4 and macOS Sonoma 14.8.4 to developers. Both are security-maintenance updates for Macs that have not upgraded to macOS Tahoe 26, with public releases expected in early February 2026.
Why Two Older Versions Are Still Updated
Apple typically maintains the two macOS versions that came before the current release with security patches. With macOS Tahoe 26 now the headline version, Sequoia (15) and Sonoma (14) continue to receive security-only updates so that users on older or incompatible hardware stay protected. Neither 15.7.4 nor 14.8.4 adds new features.
What's in RC3
- Security fixes: Both candidates roll up the latest WebKit, kernel, and system framework patches that already shipped in the Tahoe line.
- Bug fixes: Minor reliability fixes for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and external display handling.
- No feature changes: These are maintenance releases; the interface and apps are unchanged.
RC Timeline
- RC1: mid-January 2026
- RC2: late January 2026
- RC3: January 26, 2026
A third release candidate usually signals Apple caught a late regression. The public builds shipped on February 11, 2026 as macOS Sequoia 15.7.4 and Sonoma 14.8.4.
Who Should Install These Updates
If your Mac can run macOS Tahoe 26, upgrading is the better long-term move for features and support. If your Mac is not eligible for Tahoe — or you are deliberately staying on an older version — install 15.7.4 or 14.8.4 as soon as the public build is available to stay protected. See our Update Tracker for the full version history and build numbers.