Skip to main content

Which operating system is on the device?

Most devices on Back Market show which operating system (OS) is pre-installed. You can find this in the "Technical specifications" or "Everything you ever wanted to know" sections of the product page. Note that this section shows the overall OS only (e.g., iOS, Android, Windows), not the specific version.

Need to know more about your device’s operating system? We’ve got you covered.

Mac operating systems

Keep your device up to date with the latest Apple operating system, called macOS. That said, only certain devices can run the most recent macOS.

Update your macOS version

We require our sellers to make sure every Mac is updated before shipping, but it's still good to check for updates once yours arrives.

Step 1. Select the Apple symbol in the menu bar at the top of your screen.

Step 2. Select “System Settings”.

Step 3. Select “General”.

Step 4. Check for available updates. If any are available, you can update your operating system.

Heads up — the update will be followed by a restart, so make sure all your documents are saved.

Windows operating systems

Most Windows laptops and desktops come with Windows 10 or Windows 11, depending on hardware compatibility. The "Technical Specifications" section on the product details page shows the overall OS installed on the device, but not the specific version.

Check your Windows OS version

Windows makes it easy to check your device for updates. Use Windows Update Manager to check for updates

Support discontinuation for Windows 10

Microsoft moved Windows 10 into extended support in October 2025. If your laptop doesn’t meet Windows 11 hardware requirements, this change affects software support, not your device’s functionality.

Your refurbished laptop met all requirements at purchase and still works as designed. You can continue using Windows 10, upgrade to Windows 11 if compatible, or install an alternative operating system that suits your needs. Compare operating system options and learn how to install them

Windows 11 compatibility

Microsoft doesn't exclusively manufacture all Windows computers like Apple does, so compatibility varies by device.

Chrome operating systems

Chromebook users have it easy. These devices update automatically. When an update is available, you'll see an "Update Available" notification. Select "Restart" to update.

Check your Chrome OS version

To manually check for Chrome OS updates, follow these steps:

Step 1. At the bottom right side of the screen, select the time.

Step 2. Select “Settings”.

Step 3. Select "About Chrome OS".

Step 4. Select "Check for updates".

If your Chromebook finds a software update, it'll start downloading automatically.

iPhone operating systems

Apple continually updates iOS, so check regularly for available updates.

Check your iOS version

To check your iPhone's iOS version, go to “Settings” > “General” > “About”. There you'll see it listed under "iOS Version”.

To update your device, go to "Settings" > "General" > "Software Update".

You can also download updates via computer if you don't have enough storage space by following these steps:

Mac with macOS Catalina or later

Step 1. Connect your iPhone to your computer.

Step 2. Go to the “Finder” app.

Step 3. Select your iPhone in the sidebar to the left of the main Finder window.

Step 4. Go to “General”.

Step 5. Select “Check for Updates”.

The update may take 30 to 60 minutes, so leave your iPhone connected until it's complete.

You can safely remove your iPhone by selecting the eject icon next to your phone's name in the Finder window.

Mac with macOS Mojave or earlier, or a Windows Computer

Step 1. Open the iTunes app on your computer.

Step 2. Connect your iPhone to the computer.

Step 3. Wait for the device to appear in your iTunes sidebar, then select it.

Step 4. Go to “Summary”.

Step 5. Select “Check for Updates”.

The update may take 30 to 60 minutes, so leave your iPhone connected until it's complete.

You can safely remove your iPhone by selecting the eject icon next to the image of your iPhone in the sidebar of the iTunes menu.

Android operating systems

Check your Android OS version

To check your phone's operating system, go to "Settings" > "System" > "Advanced" > "System Update". You'll see your operating system version and security patch level.

You'll also have the option to update, if available.

Did this answer your question?