Summary
- Apple updates macOS 28 storage migration guidance.
- Encrypted HFS+ volumes can now convert directly to encrypted APFS.
- Users no longer need to decrypt drives before conversion.
- Encrypted Time Machine backup disks remain excluded.
CUPERTINO, July 23 — Apple has updated its guidance for macOS 28, introducing a simpler way for users to prepare encrypted Mac OS Extended (HFS+) storage volumes for the upcoming operating system.
The company now allows encrypted HFS+ volumes to be converted directly to encrypted APFS using Disk Utility, removing the previous requirement to decrypt the drive before conversion.
Apple said encrypted HFS+ volumes will no longer be supported in macOS 28, while unencrypted HFS+ volumes will remain compatible.
Users may also choose to decrypt or reformat affected drives, although the new direct conversion option does not apply to encrypted Time Machine backup disks.
Apple recommends users migrate affected storage before upgrading to macOS 28 to ensure continued compatibility.
