Apple has pushed a fourth release candidate for macOS Sonoma 14.8.8 (build 23J612) and macOS Sequoia 15.7.8 (build 24G814), arriving just days after the third RC and alongside macOS 26.6 beta 4 and macOS 27 beta 3. The company's release notes remain generic, citing only "important security fixes" recommended for all users.

Last week Apple accelerated macOS 26.5.2 with security patches originally slated for the 26.6 branch, explaining the early delivery was prompted by risks from new AI-powered tools. That context makes the unusual four-RC cycle for a minor point release notable — Apple typically settles on one or two candidates before final availability.

The repeated candidates suggest engineers are addressing freshly identified vulnerabilities, possibly under active exploitation. Apple has not disclosed specific CVEs, but the pattern mirrors its response to zero-day threats in prior years.

For users still on Sonoma or Sequoia, the message is clear: install the final versions immediately when they land. The rapid RC cadence signals Apple prioritizes patching older supported branches over waiting for the next major release, a stance that benefits enterprises and consumers who delay major OS upgrades.