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macOS 15 Sequoia on Unsupported Macs Thread

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Useful said:
Another Day, Another OCLP macOS Update Nightmare

Just sharing my experience in case anyone else runs into the same issue and needs a solution!

So, I noticed there was a 15.3 update available, so I decided to update my 2014 MacBook Pro 15" to the latest version. Here's how it went:

I downloaded the update via the Software Update section, restarted my Mac, and it began installing. However, it got stuck on this screen for an hour, with the fan running non-stop:

IMG-20250127-185733.png


(Cropped the photo because my reflection was visible.)

I tried troubleshooting: The Caps Lock key didn't light up, and the F1/F2 keys wouldn't adjust the brightness. Even closing the lid didn’t turn off the screen, so the system seemed to have frozen.

I read online about booting into Safe Mode, so I gave that a try. I turned the Mac off, turned it back on while holding the Shift key, and – to my surprise – the progress bar continued! It said about 5 minutes remaining, so I waited. Afterward, I was able to log in, but the system was super laggy.

I opened OCLP and installed the one available root patch, then restarted the Mac, hoping it would fix the problem. Nope. It froze at the exact same spot as before (see the picture above).

At this point, I booted into Safe Mode again and reopened OCLP. This time, there were more root patches available to install. These took several minutes to apply. After that, I restarted, and finally, the progress bar completed, and I was able to log in without issues.

I have no idea why macOS 15.3 couldn’t install normally and required two trips into Safe Mode to fix, but I’m glad everything is working now. That said, this experience makes me question whether OCLP is worth the hassle. Thankfully, I always back up my data, but if I hadn’t been able to fix this, I would’ve been stuck reinstalling macOS, which would’ve been even more time-consuming.

From now on, I’m going to avoid updating my OS unless something is broken. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. I could’ve saved myself two hours of time by leaving things as they were!

I’m sharing this for anyone who might encounter this issue in the future and for the OCLP developers, in the hope that it helps them identify and fix the problem. Good luck!
Click to expand...

Technically OCLP 2.2 says it supports 15.2 nothing about 15.3 if your jumping on something day of release I would expect issues just because it’s released doesn’t mean OCLP automatically supports it.
Have same MacBook Pro 2014 no issues for me updating but my last post I said about using a spare partition when trying updates on a unsupported machine , most users are testing on a spare partition that way you wouldn’t have wasted two hours?.. but every experience will vary.
 
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TOM1211 said:
Technically OCLP 2.2 says it supports 15.2 nothing about 15.3 if your jumping on something day of release I would expect issues just because it’s released doesn’t mean OCLP automatically supports it.
Have same MacBook Pro 2014 no issues for me updating but my last post I said about using a spare partition when trying updates on a unsupported machine , most users are testing on a spare partition that way you wouldn’t have wasted two hours?.. but every experience will vary.
Click to expand...
OCLP 2.2 works well on 15.3, MBP 13" 11,1.
-Revert root batches
-Uninstall OCLP using uninstaller from Github
-Install 15.3 update
-Install OCLP and Root Batches, done
 
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olad said:
So, you had to do two OCLP root patches on a new macOS, using an existing OCLP version. And you don't think OCLP worth the hassle, yet it managed to have sorted out your MBP in unknown territory! Many are the times I have done two or more Safe Mode just to get my MBP11,4 (2015) working. But I know the devs put in a lot of effort into OCLP, and yes, I think it worth the hassle every time, and I think it par for the course if I have to re-patch more than once. Two hours is nothing compared to what the devs have invested in making our ancient machines work with the latest macOSes. And yet you continue to use OCLP to run your MBP on macOS 15.3, and have not reverted to the macOS that came with your machine.

You are entitled to your opinion, but few will agree with it here that OCLP is not worth the hassle.
Click to expand...

My post might have come off as a bit harsh, I truly appreciate the work that the OCLP developers are doing to extend the lifespan of older Macs. It's impressive how they continue to support these devices. If the combination of macOS 15.3 and OCLP 2.2 proves to be stable, I plan to refrain from further updates. My MacBook is starting to show signs of slowing down, and I'm concerned that future software updates might compromise its performance and usability.

coolio2004 said:
If you follow the recommendation of the developers to use a full usb installer you will not be in troubel. I went to 15.3 on my MM 7,1, MBA 7,2 and iMac 14,1 with full installer without any problems and no post patches were necessary.
Click to expand...

I find it much more convenient to click the Update button in the menu and proceed, rather than going through the hassle of creating a new USB installer each time.

TOM1211 said:
Technically OCLP 2.2 says it supports 15.2 nothing about 15.3 if your jumping on something day of release I would expect issues just because it’s released doesn’t mean OCLP automatically supports it.
Have same MacBook Pro 2014 no issues for me updating but my last post I said about using a spare partition when trying updates on a unsupported machine , most users are testing on a spare partition that way you wouldn’t have wasted two hours?.. but every experience will vary.
Click to expand...

I wasn't aware that version 15.3 was unsupported. I assumed that if it appeared in the update menu, it would be compatible. In the future, I'll be more cautious with updates. Where can I find information on the most recent version that OCLP officially supports?
 
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Installed MacOS 15.3 on my iMac with the installer package from Mr. Macintosh's website after updating the Metallib to the matching version. Did post patching and all works fine so far...
 
Useful said:
My post might have come off as a bit harsh, I truly appreciate the work that the OCLP developers are doing to extend the lifespan of older Macs. It's impressive how they continue to support these devices. If the combination of macOS 15.3 and OCLP 2.2 proves to be stable, I plan to refrain from further updates. My MacBook is starting to show signs of slowing down, and I'm concerned that future software updates might compromise its performance and usability.



I find it much more convenient to click the Update button in the menu and proceed, rather than going through the hassle of creating a new USB installer each time.



I wasn't aware that version 15.3 was unsupported. I assumed that if it appeared in the update menu, it would be compatible. In the future, I'll be more cautious with updates. Where can I find information on the most recent version that OCLP officially supports?
Click to expand...

it’s more of just a rule For me going to the normal site

github.com

Release 2.2.0 · dortania/OpenCore-Legacy-Patcher

With the release of OpenCore Legacy Patcher 2.2.0, this version will primarily focus on macOS 15.2 support (dropping later today). Primary changes include: Resolve JavaScriptCore crashes on macOS ...
github.com github.com

And reading release notes first note is

“With the release of OpenCore Legacy Patcher 2.2.0, this version will primarily focus on macOS 15.2 support”

No mention of 15.3 but assume a new release how would it be patched instantly ? Would be a rule to go by .
So the fact the patches work at all is credit to OCLP team , there was a Ventura release that completely broke the patches and old Mac support resulting it stalling at 50% after patches best to read on here peoples successes or fails or again try on a throw away partition as every Mac is different.
 
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MBP11,1 (2013 13") and MBP5,2 (2009 17") are now running Sequoia 15.3 on their internal SSDs. Using OCLP 2.2.0.

MBP11,1 is my system for daily use. Tried 15.3RC on its external SSD for a while before installing 15.3 release on the internal SSD.

MBP5,2 is a non-metal system used only to verify that the latest OS is still working OK on it.

Installation from USB installer went smooth in both cases. Just to mention that (as always), for the MBP5,2 a wired keyboard and a wired mouse need to be connected until root patches are applied. For the MBP11,1 need to remove AppleIntelHD5000Graphics.kext from /Library/Extensions before running the installer, or need to boot in safe mode later to run the patches (I know the removal should happen automatically but does't in my case).

Very pleased to continue using the MBP11,1 as my standard system. Great achievement by the developers.
 
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rMBP10,1 2012 updated from Sequoia 15.2 + OCLP 2.2.0 to 15.3 + 2.2.0

I used OCLP to download the installer to the /Applications folder, double clicked and away she went. Rebuilt OCLP and repatched after first login came up unaccelerated.

No issues, no fans whirling, Activity Monitor is nominal. ✌️
 
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Pachnes said:
Which steps are necessary to update my Mac mini 2012 6.2 to macOS 15.3? I now have macOS 15.2 with OCLP 2.2.0 installed.
Click to expand...
Here are my steps that have proven themselves time and time again as note:

OCLP 👉 how to Upgrade / Update your macOS

Read and understand this infos from OCLP developers BEFORE installation


Pre-tip

❗️Better NEVER use Memoji as User Pic / iCloud User Pic with OCLP
👉🏻 ATTENTION: iOS 17.1+ your Contact Photo in adress book sync to iCloud and so to your Login pic. 😱
So DON'T use Memoji there either❗️


Here we go!!!😊
  1. BACKUP❗️ BACKUP❗️ your data
  2. ❗️ Read the release notes from OCLP Devs BEFORE installation to check compatibility / issues etc.: https://github.com/dortania/OpenCore-Legacy-Patcher/releases
  3. UPGRADE [i.e. macOS 14 ➡️ macOS 15]
    1. Installation of OCLP 👉 ALWAYS❗️ "Create macOS Installer"(see OCLP menu)
    2. Install navigates you through the whole process including "Build and Install Opencore" to your start disk and install "Post-Install Root Patch" – ❗️ Don’t migrate your data from a backup (i.e. Time Machine, CCC, SD etc.) during this process
    3. ❗️ If you want to migrate data from a backup
      1. first revert the root patches with OCLP
      2. then migrate your data [https://dortania.github.io/OpenCore...ALL.html#applying-post-install-volume-patches] – Howto
      3. ❗️ Install the root patches – in "secure boot mode" always best
  4. UPDATE current macOS
    1. Wanna update your current macOS i.e. macOS 15.0 to 15.1 then ALWAYS❗️ check first if there's a NEW version of OCLP and install this INCLUDING new "Build and Install Opencore" to you start disk + check/install "Post-Install Root Patch"
    2. Now you could use the system updater to get the latest macOS UPDATE – ❗️ not Upgrade. But better is to wait till OCLP developers push out a new OCLP patcher version that includes the corresponding macOS update.😉
    3. ❗️ Install the root patches – in "secure boot mode" always best
  5. Increased CPU load / no smooth macOS? 👉 disable dynamic wallpaper +screensaver

Hope this helps! 👍🏻

PS:
Troubleshooting – https://dortania.github.io/OpenCore-Legacy-Patcher/TROUBLESHOOTING.html

Further infos:

Please follow EXACTLY the corresponding step-by-step tutorial for macOS (video length approx. 30-60 min), which "Mr. Macintosh" explains on Youtube.

It is also worth watching the other videos on his channel - especially the latest videos!
https://www.youtube.com/@Mr.Macintosh/videos


JessiesFlying videos are also very helpful - especially when it comes to special cases and bugs.
https://www.youtube.com/@JessiesFlying/videos


You should also search for a solution in this macrumors-thread 👍🏻:

 
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Useful said:
So, I noticed there was a 15.3 update available, so I decided to update my 2014 MacBook Pro 15" to the latest version. Here's how it went:
Click to expand...
Everything worked perfectly for me, even though I did the update this time via OTA 🫣. It ran completely on its own while I was watching a movie 🎥. After the movie, I just had to apply the patches, which OCLP pointed out right away. No update for the macOS 15 versions ran as smoothly before.

I came from macOS 15.2 and no longer install betas due to bad experiences. In the past, updates often took me 2 hours ⏳ or an entire night 🌙, which is why I created my "How to" guide that gets updated regularly. 💻⌛
 
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hvds said:
...and that may well be all it needs to keep OCLP up to date with 15.x releases. I.e. no changes to OCLP code.
Click to expand...
Seems to me, that it's usually around the .4, or .5 release of a macOS cycle that Apple really changes things, and the patcher has to basically be re-written to make things work again. At least That's what I remember from the past few cycles.
 
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ImpetuousRacer said:
Have a MacBook Pro Retina Late 2012 (MacbookPro10,2) and did a clean install of 15.3. It showed the minutes countdown in the initial phase, rebooted to the next phase where it looks like it's booting up and shows the minutes left, then it reboots again and then it gets to around 1% progress and just freezes. The USB drive isn't flashing and doesn't show any disk activity.

I tried rebooting and same thing. Stuck at 1%. Tried reset NVRAM and no help. Tried reinstalling the OS and gets stuck at the same spot (even with 15.2 installer). Should I let it sit at that stage overnight to see if it advances? Is there a verbose mode to see what it's getting stuck at?

I just installed a Sintech adapter with Samsung 860 EVO M2 SATA drive. Could this be an issue? MacBook has the very latest firmware 429. Samsung drive has latest firmware and is good health. Erased, formatted, and most all of the install process went smoothly, just stuck at this spot.

Thanks for the help!
Click to expand...
I goofed up. I was making the bootable Sequoia USB installer with OCLP installed on it from my MacBook Air for my MacBook Pro and I forgot to change the selection from MacBook Air to MacBook Pro in OCLP before building it. So, it was trying to use the incorrect platform EFI on boot.
 
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coolio2004 said:
If you follow the recommendation of the developers to use a full usb installer you will not be in troubel. I went to 15.3 on my MM 7,1, MBA 7,2 and iMac 14,1 with full installer without any problems and no post patches were necessary.
Click to expand...
Like so many other areas there is confusion about terminology; I used to think it obvious that say 12.1 to 12.2 was a major update and 12.2 to 12.2.1 was minor; and a change to a new OS 13 was an upgrade; but this terminology is not established; last I checked the OCLP terminology draws no distinction between any "point" updates and calls upgrades "major updates" and last I checked they specified OTA for "updates" - but then they clearly indicated that patching is not required for updates on one of the front pages.
 
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The "Nightly" version of OCLP is still stuck at 2.3.0 as published a long time ago (01/01/2025). I just verified it by downloading the installer again and it has the same date always.
However, the Metal package for the new version of Sequoia 15.3 (24D60) has already been released, which is essential for those who have video cards that are not compatible with the new Metal 3 drivers; so I would say it is safe to upgrade.
As I write with iPhone, my Mac is updating via the USB stick I created with OCLP 2.3.0 Nightly and so far all is going well.

INSTALLATION completed quickly and directly as I was finishing writing this message and everything seems to be working just fine.
What's more, the Mac did not have to go into Safe Mode and I did not have to install the Post Install Patch and Metal Package myself since that was taken care of by OCLP during the installation with a USB stick created by OCLP itself. Undeniable advantage!!!
The fan noise at the beginning is caused by the MTLCompilerService process and lasted a couple of minutes. Positive sign that the Metal package was installed correctly during the automatic installation created by OCLP.

PURPLE, while with Sonoma my Mac was equal to the new Macs in everything, of course except the most complex hardware performance, with Sequoia it continues to fail:
1) the Histogram in Preview and its automatic adjustment or by means of the sliders on the ends of the Histogram graph which unfortunately does not appear and in touching the two sliders the image disappears completely. (The middle slider, on the other hand, works);
2) the transmission of YouTube videos from iPhone to Mac. But not all videos since many, on the other hand, work fine and therefore I think it is a problem, related to YouTube rights, which, however, I did not have with Sonoma and I do not have if I do the same thing with Sequoia on the supported Macs.

I suggest that everyone use Sandisk's very small, black USB flash drives that go up to 300mB/sec. in read. They are very fast and cheap on Amazon and elsewhere.
Although one can proceed in different ways, and until Sonoma I was a fanatical defender of installing by app created with the package downloaded from MrMacintosh or with Gib macOS, I now prefer to always upgrade by USB stick. I was convinced after a discussion on the subject made in Discord and at which one of the Developers spoke.
Installation by thumb drive is the safest and recommended and since its creation has been INTEGRATED in the OCLP App it is also the easiest and straightforward.
If anyone has problems starting the installation (and I had them with 15.1 and following) I suggest to reset the NVRAM and then select the English language as soon as the choice to access the recovery / installation utilities appears.

Note to those who have a Mac more or less similar to mine. (See my Signature and if you use a smartphone put it horizontally to read all the Signatures of individual Posts, in the thread)
I point out that I changed the settings that OCLP sets by default to avoid problems with Sequoia for users with nVidia, Kepler series cards.
On the Extras page of the OCLP settings I enable the “mediaanalysisd service” which is normally disabled, and I also enable “FeatureUnlock” on the Advanced page of OCLP. In my iMac 14,2 i7 late 2013 (with features listed in my Signature) everything works fine and I have no conflicts.
Personally, I also prefer to disable “Reporting” in the App page and in the Build page I always set the “Boot Picker Timeout” to 3 seconds.

macOS_15_3_iMac14_2_OCLP_2_3_0.jpg
 
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Because the best thing to create a USB key with the macOS Installer is to use the OCLP App directly.
In the example image you can see the download of the Sonoma Installer, as I am creating my own Installer that I need. but the download behavior is the same even if you download Sequoia or another version of macOS. You can observe, then, how the download of the installer pacchertto occur at a frightening speed, and that, I assure you, I do not get if I download the package from Mr. Macintosh or using Gil macOS, despite the fact that they, too, get the file directly from Apple.
When the download is complete, OCLP asks us which device we want to install the Installer on, and when it has finished installing it on the USB stick OCLP also asks us if we want to install OCLP on that device. We then have to select the USB stick so that it also contains OCLP.
From various tests (also because I use FileVault which complicates the installation a bit by having to ask for its passwordv) I found that before installing from the USB stick it is convenient to:
1) reset the NVRAM
2) Reboot the Mac and select the EFI-Boot on the USB stick and not the one on the main system disk, where it is usually installed and which, if not removed, still appears in the Boot Picker list.
3) Once the installation is complete, restart the Mac and at the Boot Picker (which is accessed by holding down the Option key when the gong sounds) select again the Boot-EFI of the System’s disk.

A very fast Installer's download.jpg
 
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coolio2004 said:
I went to 15.3 on my MM 7,1, MBA 7,2 and iMac 14,1 with full installer without any problems and no post patches were necessary.
Click to expand...
What do you mean by "no post patches were necessary." Is that because you built your macOS installers with OCLP (and thus the patches were already embedded in the macOS installer)? If that's the case, did you use OCLP to build a unique macOS installer for each Mac? Thanks.
 
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