Installation & Updating Fixes

PiecesOS and the Pieces Desktop App can be downloaded using several installation methods, and they can be updated differently depending on the method used.

You can also find information below on how to determine your Apple device's CPU architecture and OS version.

Manual Installation Methods

If you’re experiencing difficulties installing PiecesOS or the Pieces Desktop App, you can manually install both software by downloading the standalone files or using terminal commands.

If you’re unsure which `.dmg` or `.pkg` you need based on your device’s CPU, [click here.](/products/meet-pieces/troubleshooting/macos#checking-cpu-type)

via PKG Files

Make sure to select the correct Pieces .pkg for your macOS device—Apple Silicon (ARM) or Intel.

Apple Silicon (ARM) Intel
Download Pieces PKG for macOS (Apple Silicon / ARM) Download Pieces PKG for macOS (Intel)

via DMG Files

Make sure to select the correct Pieces .dmg files for your macOS device—Apple Silicon (ARM) or Intel.

Apple Silicon (ARM) Intel
Download PiecesOS DMG for macOS (ARM) Download PiecesOS DMG for macOS (Intel)
Download Pieces Desktop App DMG for macOS (ARM) Download Pieces Desktop App DMG for macOS (Intel)

via Homebrew

A singular brew command, brew install—- cask pieces, automatically manages installing PiecesOS and the Pieces Desktop App.

Versions & Updates

Many issues can stem from out-of-date plugins, extensions, the desktop app, or PiecesOS.

Updating PiecesOS

Make sure PiecesOS is running—look for the **Pieces Icon** in your system tray (menu bar). Check for available updates and install them if prompted.

Updating the Pieces Desktop App

Updating the Pieces Desktop App on macOS can be done directly from the app:

Launch the Pieces Desktop App. Click your username in the top left of the app. Hover over `Update` in the dropdown menu. Click on either `Desktop App` or `PiecesOS` from the Update submenu to check for and install updates for that component. Restart the app when the update completes. 
<Callout type="info">
  You may also see an update notification automatically when you open either of the apps.
</Callout>

Common Installation Issues

There are a range of common install issues on Apple devices, like having an out-of-date OS version or selecting the wrong installation package.

Checking OS Version

Pieces Suite applications require a minimum macOS version of macOS 13.0 (Ventura). If you’re experiencing installation issues, you should first check your OS version to make sure it’s up-to-date.

To determine your Apple device’s version of macOS:

  1. Click the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen

  2. Select About This Mac

  3. Under your device name (i.e., MacBook Air), look for the last line on the list, titled macOS

The macOS line will report what version of macOS installed, e.g., Sequoia 15.1.1.

Checking CPU Type

Intel and Apple Silicon (ARM) devices run on entirely separate CPU architectures, so downloading the wrong package for your Apple device can cause apps from the Pieces Suite to be rendered useless.

To determine what CPU architecture your Apple device utilizes:

  1. Click the Apple () icon in the top-left corner of your screen.

  2. Select About This Mac, and look for the Overview section. The first line will contain your CPU type:

  • Apple Silicon / ARM: You will see an M-Series processor, e.g., Apple M3

  • Intel: You will see an Intel processor, e.g., 2.6 GHz Intel Core i7

Once you’ve determined your CPU architecture, download the correct installation package accordingly.

Restart & Retry

If installation fails due to having an outdated version of macOS or installing the wrong package for your device’s architecture, restart your machine and try the installation again from scratch.

If the problem persists, please open a GitHub issue for further assistance, or book a call with our engineers.