If you see a 'Free up space on Drive C' alert during a Windows upgrade

When upgrading from an earlier version of Windows, a "Free up space on Drive C" message might appear on MacBook Air (11-inch, Mid 2012) computers that have a built-in 64 GB flash drive.

Install a full version of Windows instead of using an upgrade version. Upgrade versions can't be installed because the built-in 64GB flash drive can only allocate 34GB of space for a Windows partition. This is not enough free space to accommodate an upgrade installation. 

These steps erase the current Windows partition on your Mac. Make sure you have a backup of any important data on your Windows partition before performing these steps.

Use these steps to remove your current installation of Windows and then reinstall a full version of Windows:

  1. Back up your data from the Windows partition.
  2. Start your Mac from OS X.
  3. From the Finder, choose  Go > Utilities.
  4. Open Boot Camp Assistant from the Utilities window.
  5. Click Continue, then select the option to "Remove Windows… or later version".
  6. After Boot Camp finishes removing your Windows partition, use Boot Camp Assistant to install a full version of Windows.
  7. Once installation completes, restore your data from your backup.

Information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsement. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance, or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding third-party website accuracy or reliability. Risks are inherent in the use of the Internet. Contact the vendor for additional information. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Published Date: