Recent events surrounding the popular Mac application Bartender have raised alarms among users due to its unexpected transfer in ownership. This situation underscores a critical point: automatic app updates may not always enhance security. A preferable approach is to utilize MacUpdater, a tool that simplifies the process of identifying which applications need updates, ensuring their safety before applying changes, and facilitating a comprehensive update process in one go.

Benefits of Using MacUpdater for App Management

MacUpdater played a key role in alerting users about Bartender’s change in ownership, even when this information was not publicly announced. Through its prompt warning regarding the modification of the app’s certificate and the ambiguity surrounding its new proprietors, MacUpdater showcased one of its standout features.

For those who install applications from sources beyond the Mac App Store, MacUpdater serves as a vital resource for confirming the security of app updates. Each application listed in MacUpdater features a small i icon located to the right. A red icon indicates potential issues with the app’s update; thorough investigation is recommended prior to any installation.

A blue icon allows users to access release notes prior to updating. For convenience, MacUpdater can also be relocated to the menu bar, permitting seamless app updates from there.

How to Navigate MacUpdater

After downloading and installing MacUpdater, it scans the system to identify all installed applications. The application will promptly display which apps are current and which require updates. The free version permits updating up to ten apps; however, an investment of $9.37 unlocks unlimited update capabilities.

To commence updates, users can select either the Update App or Upgrade App button for individual apps or utilize the Select QuickUpdate Apps option to choose multiple apps simultaneously. Most updates proceed without complications, though some may necessitate entering an administrative password. Typically, the entire update journey is seamless.

The distinction between Update and Upgrade is significant; upgrades refer to major version changes that may necessitate a new purchase.

For $21.87, users can explore the Pro version, which includes the feature to schedule automatic updates; nevertheless, periodic checks on apps before updates are still advisable.

Areas for Enhancement

One of the primary critiques of MacUpdater is its user interface. The design appears somewhat outdated and could benefit from modern touches to improve usability. For example, the small size of the i button makes it difficult to discern its color effectively, highlighting a need for better visual cues regarding apps that should not be updated.

Additionally, a bug occurs that can cause the application to freeze completely. After attempting to move MacUpdater to the menu bar, I inadvertently selected the “Nowhere” option, which concealed the app from both the dock and the menu bar. This led to accessing the app solely through the Settings menu; even force quitting did not restore visibility. Fortunately, restarting the computer resolved the issue.

Keep an Eye on Student Discounts

The standard cost of $9.37 is already quite reasonable, but students or those residing outside the wealthiest 40 nations can obtain a 40% discount by reaching out to the developers. This offers exceptional value for such a beneficial tool; however, it is crucial to understand that MacUpdater relies heavily on server-side maintenance, meaning it cannot function indefinitely.

The developers have established a deadline of January 2026 for MacUpdater 3, after which users must purchase an updated version. Although the price remains justifiable, understanding the app’s business model is essential before proceeding with a purchase.