How do I use iMessage on my 2012 MacBook Pro?

Hi CoolEquation292,

Please check out this link, which explains how to use Messages on Mac, and may help: Use Messages on your Mac

Send a message

1. Open Messages. You might be asked to sign in with your Apple ID. Can't sign in?

2. Click the New Message button  at the top of the Messages window.

3. Type the name, email address, or phone number of one or more recipients. Or click the Add button  and choose from your contacts.

4. Press Tab or click the message field at the bottom of the window, then type your message.

* To include emoji, click the Emoji Picker button .

* To include an image or other file, drag or paste it into the message field.

* To include an audio recording, click the Record Audio button  and record your message.

* To include other items, such as Memoji stickers, GIFs, and message effects such as balloons or confetti, click the Apps button . Requires macOS Big Sur or later. 

* To help bring your message to the attention of a recipient, include @ before their name, like @John. Or click their name after you type it. Their name is then highlighted in the message, and they will receive a notification letting them know that they have been mentioned. Requires macOS Big Sur or later.

5. Press Return to send the message.

If you're unable to send messages because Screen Time is enabled, please check out this link, which explains how to manage those settings: Use Screen Time on your Mac

For help syncing contacts, please check out this link, which will guide you through that process: Sync contacts and calendars between your Mac and iPhone or iPad

Thanks!

Hi CoolEquation292,

Do you use iCloud to sync contacts? If so, you can try the troubleshooting suggestions here to get your contacts syncing:

If your iCloud Contacts, Calendars, or Reminders won’t sync - Apple Support

If you don't use iCloud to sync your contacts, please let us know which type of account is used for contact syncing.

Cheers!