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Easily update and default to Python 3.12 on macOS with this step-by-step tutorial
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If you're a Mac user struggling to install the latest Python version and make it your system's default, here is an easy to follow solution for you.
Managing multiple Python versions on macOS can be a bit tricky, especially when you need the latest features or compatibility with new libraries. This tutorial will guide you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you have the latest Python version up and running as your default interpreter.
macOS comes with a pre-installed version of Python, but it's often outdated and not suitable for development purposes. Installing the latest Python version allows you to:
Before making any changes, it's good to know which Python version you're currently using.
python3 --version
Example Output:
Python 3.9.6
If you don't have Homebrew installed, you can install it using the following command:
/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"
For more detailed instructions, visit the Homebrew website.
Before installing new packages, ensure Homebrew is up to date:
brew update
As of writing this tutorial, the latest stable Python version is Python 3.12. Install it using Homebrew:
brew install python@3.12
This command downloads and installs Python 3.12 and its associated tools.
To make sure your system uses the newly installed Python version by default, you need to adjust your PATH environment variable.
Edit Your Shell Configuration File
Depending on the shell you're using (likely zsh or bash), you'll need to edit either ~/.zshrc or ~/.bash_profile.
For Zsh (default on macOS Catalina and later):
nano ~/.zshrc
For Bash:
nano ~/.bash_profile
Add Homebrew's Python to Your PATH Add the following line at the top of the file:
export PATH="/opt/homebrew/bin:$PATH"
Note: On Intel-based Macs, use /usr/local/bin instead of /opt/homebrew/bin.
Save and Exit
CTRL + X, then Y, and hit Enter to save the changes.Reload Your Shell Configuration Apply the changes immediately by running:
source ~/.zshrc
Or for Bash:
source ~/.bash_profile
Check that python3 now points to the latest version:
python3 --version
Expected Output:
Python 3.12.0
Ensure that the python3 command is pointing to the correct executable:
which python3
Expected Output:
/opt/homebrew/bin/python3
If you have multiple Python versions installed, you might want to manage them without uninstalling older versions.
Use Python Version Managers
Consider using a Python version manager like pyenv to switch between different Python versions easily.
Install pyenv via Homebrew:
brew install pyenv
Install Python 3.12 Using pyenv:
pyenv install 3.12.0
Set Global Python Version:
pyenv global 3.12.0
If you're certain you no longer need the older Python version, you can uninstall it to free up space.
Uninstall via Homebrew:
brew uninstall python@3.9
Note: If the older Python version wasn't installed via Homebrew, you'll need to remove it manually, which requires caution to avoid deleting system-critical files.
By following these steps, you should have the latest Python version installed on your Mac and set as the default interpreter. This setup will allow you to take advantage of the newest Python features and ensure compatibility with up-to-date libraries.
Feel free to share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments below!
Happy coding!