macOS Catalina Frequently Asked Questions

Description: This article contains some of the most frequently asked questions about macOS 10.15 Catalina from Winter 2019.

Q: What is Catalina?
A: Catalina is the latest MacOS version that released on October 7th, 2019. It succeeds the previous version, which was Mojave.

Q: What should I do before I upgrade to Catalina?
A: Any 32 bit apps on your computer will no longer function on Catalina and will result in an error. If there is an updated version of your app available that will work with Catalina, it is best to update it to that version or reinstall the application to the version that is supported by Catalina. Otherwise, having a data backup is always a good plan.

Q: Why are some of my apps no longer working?
A: The macOS Catalina is the first macOS version to only be a 64 bit system, which no longer supports any 32 bit software. This will mean older software that is not updated will not work. If you have an updated version, you can download the new one to replace what is on your computer.

Q: What happened to iTunes?
A: iTunes has been split into three new apps: Music, Apple Podcasts, and Apple TV. iTunes as an individual app name has been retired, but the iTunes Store will still be there.

Q: Can I connect my iPad to my Mac now?
A: Yes, with the new app Sidecar. This app allows you to connect your iPad to your Mac so long as that Mac has Catalina. It can be used as a second monitor.

Q: What is the Mac Catalyst?
A: Mac Catalyst is a new developer tool in Catalina that gives iPad app developers an easy means to build a Mac version of their existing iPad apps.

Q: Can my Mac be upgraded to Catalina?
A: The following Mac computers are capable of running Catalina: MacBook (2015 and later), MacBook Air (2012 and later), MacBook Pro (2012 and later), iMac Pro (2017 and later), iMac (2012 and later), Mac mini (2012 and later) and the Mac Pro (2013 and later).

Q: ESET stopped working after I upgraded to MacOS Catalina. What can I do?
A: It is most likely the version of ESET was a 32 bit version, which is no longer supported. ESET has since released a new version that will work with Catalina so you will just need to reinstall ESET. You can follow this article from ESET on how to reinstall their software: https://support.eset.com/en/how-do-i-uninstall-or-reinstall-eset-cybersecurity-for-mac-4x.

Q: If I already upgraded to Catalina, can I go back to my previous version of MacOS?
A: The safest way to downgrade from your previous version would be if you have a Time Machine backup already available to restore from. This will ensure you will have your data still in place after the downgrade. If you do not have a backup, the other option would be to turn on your computer and immediately press the Shift, Option, Command and R keys and choose the option to reinstall the macOS that came with your Mac originally. This option will erase the current contents of the hard disk.

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