iMovie is Apple's intuitive video editing app that comes preinstalled on every Mac, making it an ideal entry point for new editors and a reliable tool for quick projects. This guide explains how to get iMovie on Mac, what to expect from the built-in version, and how to stay ready to update when new features arrive.
If you are using macOS Catalina or later, iMovie is no longer bundled with the system software and must be downloaded separately from the Mac App Store. The following summary outlines the key steps, requirements, and version details at a glance.
| Platform | Availability | Store | Version Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| macOS Monterey 12 and later | Free download | Mac App Store | Regular updates, supports 4K |
| macOS Catalina and Big Sur | Free download | Mac App Store | Legacy support for older Macs |
| Apple Silicon Macs | Optimized performance | Mac App Store | Runs natively on M1, M2, M3 |
| Intel Macs | Supported through recent versions | Mac App Store | Check macOS compatibility before install |
Download iMovie from the Mac App Store
Getting iMovie starts at the Mac App Store, which is built into every Mac running macOS Catalina or later. Open the App Store app, search for iMovie, and tap Get or the cloud icon to begin the download. Sign in with your Apple ID when prompted, and the app will install automatically.
System Requirements and Compatibility
Before installing, verify that your Mac can run the current version of iMovie. Most Intel and Apple Silicon Macs released after 2015 are supported, but specific processor and memory requirements vary by macOS version. Ensure your system has enough storage and is updated to the latest macOS build to avoid compatibility issues.
Create an Apple ID if Needed
If you do not already have an Apple ID, you will need one to download iMovie from the Mac App Store. Visit appleid.apple.com to create an account, then use those credentials to sign in on your Mac. Two-factor authentication is recommended to keep your account secure.
Install and Open iMovie
After the download completes, open iMovie from the Applications folder or Launchpad. On first launch, you may be asked to grant permissions for the camera, microphone, and photos. Accept these if you plan to capture video or access your photo library directly from the app.
Key Takeaways for Getting iMovie on Mac
- Download iMovie for free from the Mac App Store on compatible Macs.
- Verify macOS version and storage space before installing.
- Use or create an Apple ID to complete the download and installation.
- Grant necessary permissions for camera, microphone, and photo access.
- Keep your Mac and iMovie updated to access the latest features.
FAQ
Reader questions
Do I need to pay for iMovie on Mac?
No, iMovie is free to download and use. It appears as a free app in the Mac App Store, and there are no subscription fees to edit and export your projects.
Can I install iMovie on multiple Macs?
Yes, you can install iMovie on multiple Macs using the same Apple ID. There is no extra charge, and your purchases remain tied to your account for future updates.
What if the get button is grayed out in the Mac App Store?
A grayed out Get button usually means the Mac does not meet the minimum requirements, the App Store needs updating, or there is an issue with your Apple ID or region settings. Check system compatibility and sign out and back in to resolve most issues.
Will updating macOS remove my iMovie projects?
Updating macOS or iMovie does not delete personal projects stored inside the iMovie library. Back up your projects and media regularly to an external drive to protect your work across system updates.