OpenCore lets you install macOS Ventura to older Macs — even if Apple doesn't want you to

(Image credit: Apple)

Each year, Apple introduces a new version of macOS. Certain Macs miss the cut when it does and no longer support the company's latest and greatest software. The open-source OpenCore was launched last summer when macOS Ventura arrived in beta. It has matured since then and now works on more Macs that didn't make the list of supported devices.

As first noted by 9to5Mac, the OpenCore Legacy Patcher (OCLP) initially allowed older Macs to work with macOS Big Sur and macOS Monterey. The tool has left beta and is based on the same OpenCore bootloader used for Hackintosh.

It wasn't until recently OCLP worked with macOS Ventura.

Old is new again

OCLP developers explained to 9to5Mac that Apple has "removed most of the legacy drivers from macOS 13 since this version no longer supports any Macs with Intel CPUs older than the seventh generation. Despite these restrictions, the latest version of OCLP successfully brings extra life to Macs that have been discontinued by Apple."

Our macOS Ventura review confirms that, calling macOS 13 Ventura "an incremental update that's better than Monterey but not as extraordinary as Big Sur," with new features that may not be for everyone. Regardless, it's here and ready for your Mac.

The latest OCLP version works with the following Macs:

MacBook 2008 – 2016
MacBook Air, 2009 – 2017
MacBook Pro, 2008 – 2016
Mac mini, 2009 – 2017
iMac, 2007 – 2017
Mac Pro, 2008 – 2013

OpenCore supported Macs — (Image credit: OpenCore)

Like all open-source software, OCLP has limitations that tend to change as Apple introduces new macOS versions. Therefore, there's a risk associated with installing it on your older Mac. Despite this, it's good to see a tool like this as it allows older Macs to stay up-to-date for a little bit longer, warts and all.

When it was released last fall, Apple's macOS Ventura bought a small number of new features to Macs, plus various updates. This includes the all-new Stage Manager and Freeform and an updated Continuity Camera feature. The version also brought the mobile Weather and Clock apps to Mac for the first time.

For more information on OCLP, visit its GitHub webpage.

Bryan M. Wolfe has written about technology for over a decade on various websites, including TechRadar, AppAdvice, and many more. Before this, he worked in the technology field across different industries, including healthcare and education. He’s currently iMore’s lead on all things Mac and macOS, although he also loves covering iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Bryan enjoys watching his favorite sports teams, traveling, and driving around his teenage daughter to her latest stage show, audition, or school event in his spare time. He also keeps busy walking his black and white cocker spaniel, Izzy, and trying new coffees and liquid grapes.