How to find which OS was the original factory install?

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Level 1

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How to find which OS was the original factory install?

I recently bought a reconditioned Macbook Pro (Jan 23 model). Without paying much attention when setting it up I think I clicked on download and install Sonoma. It is a pile of rubbish.

1: Firstly how can I find what the original OS was on this machine? I think I read you cannot retro-install an OS if you are starting with a factory install of Sonoma, so I want to find out what the original OS was before completely mucking this machine up!

2: Can I wipe it completely and re-install a full version of Catalina from my Time machine?

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 14.1

Posted on Nov 16, 2023 9:11 AM

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Answer 1

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Top-ranking reply

abovdal

Level 2

389 points

Nov 16, 2023 4:25 PM in response to sonandton

To see which model you have, go to Settings/General/About and scroll down and click the System Report button. System Report should open to the Hardware Overview window, and at the top there will be something like this:

Model Identifier: MacBookPro18,3. Then go to

Identify your MacBook Pro model - Apple Support

find the matching identifier, and click on the Tech Specs link. Scroll down to Operating System and it should mention the OS that shipped with your model. If it's an early 2023 MBP (M2 Pro or Max, 14" or 16"), it looks like it shipped with Sonoma. Sorry, but I can't help with retro-installing, as I've never done that.

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Answer 2

BDAqua

Level 10

246,419 points

Nov 17, 2023 9:45 AM in response to sonandton

Original macOS 13.0 (22A8380), Maximum OS Latest release of macOS

There are 3 Restore Mode options...

Command (⌘)-R

Install the latest macOS that was installed on your Mac.

Option-⌘-R

Upgrade to the latest macOS compatible with your Mac.

Shift-Option-⌘-R

Install the macOS that came with your Mac, or the closest version still available.

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How to find which OS was the original factory install?

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