Help! Is there a way to bypass Apple's restriction on updating the OS on an older Mac?

Question

Level 1

7 points

Help! Is there a way to bypass Apple's restriction on updating the OS on an older Mac?

I have a late 2012 iMac that I bought in 2013 with an upgraded processor (3.4 Ghz Quad-Core Intel Core i7) and RAM (32GB), and a 3TB hard drive (all of which I paid extra for to keep this computer for the long haul), but Apple won't let me upgrade the OS anymore (I am stuck on Catalina 10.15.7), even though the computer works perfectly and has ample power. Now I am getting messages from other software (Microsoft Office, e.g.) warning me that I need to upgrade my OS in order to update their software, including security updates, etc.

Is there any way to overcome Apple's restriction on upgrading past Catalina? Is there any legitimate reason this computer cannot run Big Sur, for example? Thanks in advance for any advice!

iMac Line (2012 and Later)

Posted on Jan 18, 2023 11:09 AM

Reply

Answer 1

Owl-53

Level 10

101,737 points

Jan 19, 2023 6:42 AM in response to preverbal

Q - " Is there any legitimate reason this computer cannot run Big Sur, for example? Thanks in advance for any advice! "

A - Apple makes the Operations Systems and there for has the Legal Right to restrict what computers Qualify to run what versions of mcOS are available

If the user whats the latest and greatest versions of macOS, iOS all is not lost.

If the user wishes to explore the Apple Trade-In Process where the Value of the exiting device could be used against the cost of a new Apple Computer, iPhone or iPad

Or Shop Refurbished Apple computers at an Apple Reduced Cost

Have used both previously and have been satisfied each time.

That seems, to me, a fair and responsible offer from Apple

Reply