About how much longer can I use Catalina?

I have a late 2013, 27" iMac that runs beautifully and has Catalina OS. I know I can't upgrade anymore. I'd like to buy a new iMac, but can't afford one right now. I know that security updates are likely to end soon. In general, how much longer will the iMac and Catalina be of good use to me?


My activities on the iMac range from streaming movies (Netflix/Amazon) and music (Apple Music) as well as lots of Google Drive access. I don't do much with any hardcore apps that use too much processor power, except maybe with Zoom, when I use Manycam to access a few different 1080 Logitech cameras.


Thanks for any responses.


Posted on Nov 28, 2021 4:21 AM

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5 replies

Nov 28, 2021 6:24 AM in response to AaronRosenberg

I believe you will get several more years of use from that Mac barring some sort of hardware failure.


Many users are still running Mojave and even High Sierra on their older Macs, though they are experiencing some of the issues brought up by @ku4hx.


I tend to nurse a Mac to ten or eleven years of use before it gets to retire. Make a plan now to start saving so you can replace it before too long.

Nov 28, 2021 8:47 AM in response to AaronRosenberg

I'm specifically wondering if there will be future issues working with apps like Zoom, Apple Music, and Google Drive.


As we are neither software developers not Apple software engineers, we cannot even hazard a wild guess. You need to ask the companies involved and most are historically very reticent about discussing future development plans with consumers.


As long as compatible browsers with security are available, you should be able to continue using it.

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About how much longer can I use Catalina?

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