If your Mac says that a software update is required to connect to iPhone or iPad

You might see this message if the software on your Mac needs to be updated to support the newer software on your iPhone or iPad.

The message says that a software update is required to connect to your iPhone (or iPad, or iOS device), and asks if you would like to download and install this update now. Click Install. After the update is installed on your Mac, you should be able to connect to your device as expected.

If you continue to see this message, or if the installation fails:

• Install the latest software updates or upgrades for your Mac.

• If your iPhone is using iOS 17 or later, or if your iPad is using iPadOS 17 or later, make sure that your Mac is using macOS High Sierra or later.

• Learn what to do if the update continues to fail for unknown other reasons.