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.
Need to know more about your device’s operating system? We’ve got you covered.
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Mac operating systems
Windows operating systems
Chrome operating systems
iPhone operating systems
Android operating systems
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.
Check out Apple’s guide on its macOS releases and which devices are compatible
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. Check the "Technical specifications" on the product page to see which OS version is included.
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.
Windows 11 compatibility
Microsoft doesn't exclusively manufacture all Windows computers like Apple does, so compatibility varies by device.
Check if your device is compatible with Windows 11
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.