The world of macOS operating systems is vast and complex, with each version bringing its unique set of features, improvements, and sometimes, confusion. Among the myriad of versions, two that often come under scrutiny are Mojave and High Sierra. The question of whether Mojave is older than High Sierra is not just about chronological order but also about understanding the evolution of macOS and the significant updates each version introduced. In this article, we will delve into the history of these operating systems, their release dates, key features, and what sets them apart.
Introduction to Mojave and High Sierra
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of what Mojave and High Sierra are. Both are versions of macOS, the operating system designed by Apple for its Mac lineup. macOS has undergone several transformations since its inception, with each new version aiming to provide a more seamless, secure, and feature-rich user experience.
Understanding Mojave
Mojave, officially known as macOS Mojave, is the 15th major release of macOS. It was announced by Apple on June 4, 2018, at the WWDC 2018 and was released to the public on September 24, 2018. Mojave brought several significant updates, including a system-wide dark mode, a redesigned Mac App Store, and enhanced privacy features. One of the most notable features of Mojave was the introduction of macOS Mojave’s Dynamic Desktop, which changes the desktop background image to match the time of day.
Understanding High Sierra
High Sierra, or macOS High Sierra, is the 14th major release of macOS. It was announced by Apple on June 5, 2017, at the WWDC 2017 and was released to the public on September 25, 2017. High Sierra focused on under-the-hood improvements, including a new file system called APFS (Apple File System), enhanced graphics with Metal 2, and improved video editing capabilities with HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding). Although it didn’t introduce as many visible changes as Mojave, High Sierra laid the groundwork for future macOS versions with its significant backend updates.
Comparing Mojave and High Sierra
When comparing Mojave and High Sierra, several factors come into play, including their release dates, features, and compatibility.
Release Dates and Version History
- High Sierra was released on September 25, 2017.
- Mojave was released on September 24, 2018.
This clearly indicates that High Sierra is older than Mojave, with Mojave being released almost exactly a year after High Sierra.
Key Features and Updates
Both operating systems have their unique set of features and updates. High Sierra, with its APFS and Metal 2, focused on performance and security, while Mojave, with its dark mode and Dynamic Desktop, aimed at enhancing user experience. The choice between the two often depends on the user’s priorities: those looking for a more visually appealing and user-friendly interface might prefer Mojave, while those prioritizing backend performance and security might opt for High Sierra.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mojave is not older than High Sierra. High Sierra, released in 2017, precedes Mojave, which was released in 2018. Each version of macOS brings its own set of updates and features, catering to different user needs and preferences. Understanding the differences and release history of these operating systems can help users make informed decisions about which version to use, based on their specific requirements and the hardware they are using. Whether you’re looking for the latest features or proven stability, knowing the timeline and capabilities of macOS versions like Mojave and High Sierra is essential for maximizing your Mac experience.
What are the key differences between Mojave and High Sierra?
The key differences between Mojave and High Sierra lie in their features, performance, and compatibility. Mojave, being the newer operating system, boasts several new features such as a dark mode, improved security, and enhanced performance. It also introduces a new feature called Stacks, which helps organize files on the desktop. On the other hand, High Sierra focuses on under-the-hood improvements, including a new file system called APFS, which replaces the traditional HFS+ file system. This change improves the overall performance and reliability of the operating system.
In terms of compatibility, Mojave drops support for 32-bit apps, which means that users will need to find alternative 64-bit apps or upgrade their existing apps to be compatible with the new operating system. High Sierra, on the other hand, still supports 32-bit apps, making it a better option for users who rely on older software. Additionally, Mojave requires a more modern hardware configuration, including a Metal-capable graphics card, which may not be available on older Macs. Overall, the choice between Mojave and High Sierra depends on the user’s specific needs and hardware configuration.
How do I determine which operating system is older, Mojave or High Sierra?
To determine which operating system is older, we need to look at their release dates. High Sierra was released on September 25, 2017, as a free update to macOS Sierra. Mojave, on the other hand, was released on September 24, 2018, as a free update to High Sierra. Based on these release dates, it is clear that High Sierra is the older operating system. Additionally, we can look at the version numbers, where High Sierra is macOS 10.13 and Mojave is macOS 10.14, further confirming that High Sierra is the older operating system.
It’s worth noting that the version numbers and release dates are not the only factors that determine the age of an operating system. The development cycle, beta testing, and bug fixing also play a crucial role in determining the maturity and stability of an operating system. However, based on the release dates and version numbers, it is clear that High Sierra is the older operating system, and Mojave is the newer one. This information can help users decide which operating system to use, depending on their specific needs and requirements.
What are the system requirements for Mojave and High Sierra?
The system requirements for Mojave and High Sierra vary slightly. Mojave requires a Mac with a Metal-capable graphics card, which includes Macs from 2012 or later. Specifically, Mojave supports Macs such as the MacBook Air from mid-2012 or later, MacBook Pro from mid-2012 or later, Mac mini from 2012 or later, iMac from 2012 or later, and iMac Pro from 2017 or later. High Sierra, on the other hand, supports a wider range of Macs, including those from 2009 or later. This includes Macs such as the MacBook Air from late 2009 or later, MacBook Pro from mid-2010 or later, Mac mini from 2010 or later, iMac from late 2009 or later, and Mac Pro from 2010 or later.
In terms of processor and memory requirements, Mojave requires at least a 2.3GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, while High Sierra requires at least a 2.0GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor and 2GB of RAM. Additionally, Mojave requires a minimum of 12.5GB of free disk space, while High Sierra requires a minimum of 8.8GB of free disk space. Overall, Mojave has more stringent system requirements than High Sierra, which may limit its compatibility with older Macs.
Can I upgrade from High Sierra to Mojave?
Yes, you can upgrade from High Sierra to Mojave. In fact, Mojave is a free update to High Sierra, and you can download it from the Mac App Store. To upgrade, simply click on the Apple menu and select “App Store,” then click on the “Updates” tab and look for the Mojave update. Click on the “Update” button to begin the download and installation process. The upgrade process is relatively straightforward and should take around 30 minutes to an hour to complete, depending on your internet connection and Mac’s performance.
Before upgrading, make sure to back up your important files and data to an external hard drive or cloud storage service. Additionally, check the system requirements for Mojave to ensure that your Mac is compatible with the new operating system. It’s also a good idea to clean up your Mac by deleting unnecessary files and apps to free up disk space. Once you’ve completed the upgrade, you’ll be able to enjoy the new features and improvements in Mojave, including the dark mode, Stacks, and enhanced security.
Will my apps be compatible with Mojave if I upgrade from High Sierra?
Most apps that are compatible with High Sierra should also be compatible with Mojave. However, since Mojave drops support for 32-bit apps, you may need to find alternative 64-bit apps or upgrade your existing apps to be compatible with the new operating system. You can check the compatibility of your apps by looking for the “64-bit” label in the app’s information window. If an app is not compatible with Mojave, you may need to find an alternative app or contact the developer for an update.
To ensure a smooth transition, it’s a good idea to check the compatibility of your apps before upgrading to Mojave. You can do this by running the “System Report” tool, which will scan your Mac for incompatible apps. Additionally, you can check the Mac App Store for updates to your apps, as many developers have already released 64-bit versions of their apps. If you’re unsure about the compatibility of a particular app, you can contact the developer or search online for alternative apps that are compatible with Mojave.
What are the benefits of using Mojave over High Sierra?
There are several benefits to using Mojave over High Sierra. One of the main benefits is the new dark mode, which provides a sleek and modern look to the operating system. Additionally, Mojave introduces a new feature called Stacks, which helps organize files on the desktop. Mojave also includes enhanced security features, such as improved password management and better protection against malware. Furthermore, Mojave provides better performance and reliability, thanks to its improved file system and optimized code.
Another benefit of using Mojave is its improved compatibility with newer hardware and software. Mojave supports the latest Macs and peripherals, including the iMac Pro and the MacBook Air with Retina display. Additionally, Mojave includes improved support for emerging technologies such as machine learning and augmented reality. Overall, Mojave provides a more modern and secure operating system experience, making it a great choice for users who want the latest and greatest features and technologies. Whether you’re a creative professional, a gamer, or just a casual user, Mojave has something to offer.
Can I downgrade from Mojave to High Sierra if I’m not satisfied with the upgrade?
Yes, you can downgrade from Mojave to High Sierra, but the process is not straightforward. To downgrade, you’ll need to erase your Mac’s startup disk and reinstall High Sierra from a backup or a bootable installer. This will remove all of your files and settings, so make sure to back up your important data before downgrading. Additionally, you’ll need to ensure that you have a compatible version of High Sierra, as some features and apps may not work properly if you downgrade.
Before downgrading, consider whether the issues you’re experiencing with Mojave can be resolved by updating your apps or adjusting your settings. You can also try resetting your Mac’s System Management Controller (SMC) or resetting the NVRAM to resolve any issues. If you’re still not satisfied with Mojave, you can try contacting Apple support for assistance with downgrading to High Sierra. Keep in mind that downgrading may not be possible if you’ve already deleted the High Sierra installation files or if you’re using a newer Mac that doesn’t support High Sierra. In such cases, you may need to consider other options, such as selling your Mac or purchasing a new one that’s compatible with High Sierra.