The new M1 Macs, for example, can only be restored to macOS 11 Big Sur. For example, only Macs launched before 2012 are eligible to install them and the user must factory reset their computer to be able to run these older OS X systems.

Why would I install an older Mac OS X software?Īs for now, a limited number of Macs can install these old operating systems. OS X Snow Leopard 10.6.8, Lion 10.7, or Mountain Lion 10.8 already installedĪpple notes that Macs shipped with Mac OS X Mountain Lion cannot install OS X Lion while Macs shipped with Mac OS Mavericks or later cannot install Mountain Lion.Mac OS X Mountain Lion requires the following technologies: Some features require a compatible Internet service provider fees may apply.Some features require an Apple ID terms apply.OS X Snow Leopard 10.6.6 or later or OS X Lion 10.7 already installed.

Mac OS X 10.7 Lion is available for older systems that are not compatible with the latest version of macOS and requires the following:

Ten years ago, users needed to pay Apple $19.99 for the latest version of its OS X, and now you can finally download these two for free.Īs reported by MacWorld, through support pages, it’s possible to download them for free. Released in 20, Mac OS X Lion and OS X Mountain Lion were the last paid software updates for the Mac.