Internet Connection for Apple Software required?

I can confirm that neither app requires internet connection. I suspect that it was attempting to open a previous document that was stored in iCloud or possibly you are storing your Documents folder in iCloud. Check by going to  > System Settings > [name on top] > iCloud > iCloud Drive > Desktop and Documents Folder.

I disabled my internet connections and opened both iMovie and Pages. Neither required that I must have an active internet connection to use the software.

Both of those apps are not part of the OS but must be acquired through the Mac App Store. It may have needed you to log into the App Store to verify the license the first time you opened them. I don't know what else would need an internet connection.

User wrote " I recently bought two new Macs - an iMac and MacBook Pro. When attempting to use either iMovie or Pages, the computers both inform me that I must have an active internet connection in order to use the software. "

Have both computer(s) that were recently purchased been update to Current Sonoma 14.6.1 ?

If not, an internet connection will be required

If Yes and have updated to Current Sonoma 14.6.1

Have the iMove and Pages applications been also updated to Current Versions

iMovie:

  Version: 10.4.1 -   Install Date: 2024-06-21, 5:32 AM

Pages: 

Version: 14.1  Install Date: 2024-06-11, 5:50 AM

Welcome

Much like my learned colleague has stated earlier

Being as the computer seems to have a Unique issue

Download the Application Etrecheck ( External Link ) directly from the Developer.

It may give us some insights of what is going on, on this computer

This is purely optional.

The Application is Not a " Silver Bullet " but only a tool to examine the Hardware / Software used on this computer 

This is a Diagnostic Tool that makes no changes to the computer.

It makes a coherent and readable inventory of both the Hardware and Software used on the computer 

The application is free or paid for added features. 

The Report will Not Reveal Any Personal Information. 

Post back the Full Report - copy and paste - >>>> using the Additional Text Icon  <<<<

Fresh 👀 on the issue are always a good thing

I just hate not to be able to use certain software when I don't have an internet connection.

But that is not the case.

Tom Kirkman wrote:

On my end it is the case. I cannot override what the computer refuses to do. The computer is brand new so I will call Apple Support to find out what's going on. Thanks.

None of us have ever seen what you describe. We have provided some possible ideas of what you may have seen.

Open the app without an internet connection and take a screenshot of the message/post it here.

Tom Kirkman wrote:

Thanks, I hadn't stored anything on iCloud. I was preparing to start a new document.

And that setting was not turned on at  > System Settings > [name on top] > iCloud > iCloud Drive > Desktop and Documents Folder?

IMHO - There has been sufficient advise offered, from at least 3 different contributors, for the User ( you ) to make an informed and educated choice what remedial actions are  required for this computer.

This may require. as they have mentioned, contacting the Paid Apple Support Personal

Though, there are some ( not all ) who come to these Forums seeking Technical Answers to Technical Apple Issues

Then there are some who come seeking their moment of fame