Future browser updates on macOS 10.15 (Catalina) are discontinued, due to lack of support from Apple.
Apple released their last set of security updates to macOS 10.15 (Catalina) on July 20, 2022 (more than two years ago). The Vivaldi browser will no longer receive updates on Catalina after version Vivaldi 6.9 (first released on August 29, 2024 with continued support into October).
While Safari and Chrome might not warn you about it, just like Vivaldi, they are no longer receiving updates either.
Since Apple phased out crucial security updates to this version of their operating system (macOS 10.15) long ago, we are left with no safe ground to stand on. Whether it’s Safari, Chrome, or Vivaldi, no browser can continue to operate safely on systems that have not received security updates for such an extended period. Therefore browser engines have started to discontinue their support for this version of macOS.
Discontinued support of your computer means you will not receive updates and critical security fixes from Apple, Vivaldi or other software vendors.
What versions of macOS do we support?
Currently, we support macOS 11 (Big Sur) and above.
What can you do now?
- Check if your machine supports a newer version of macOS
If so, upgrade to the newest macOS version your hardware can support. You can do so by clicking the Apple logo (top left corner of your screen) → System preferences → General → Software update. - Try OpenCore Legacy Patcher
OpenCore Legacy Patcher is a community-driven project designed to help users install macOS on a range of Mac models that Apple no longer cares about. It can potentially allow your older Mac to run various recent macOS versions, and in turn allow you to install Vivaldi 7.0! It’s a great resource for those looking to extend the life of their older Mac hardware by installing a newer macOS. Check if your old Mac is supported by the OpenCore Legacy Patcher project. - Upgrade your hardware
If your old machine has been chugging along for far too long, maybe it’s time to give it a well-deserved retirement. Newer hardware means access to modern, secure operating systems, and your experience with Vivaldi will be buttery smooth. If you want to and have the means to, treat yourself - Switch to Linux
Feeling adventurous but still want to keep your beloved hardware? Time to check out Linux! This open-source operating system is a reliable, secure alternative, with no corporate strings attached. It’s light, it’s free, and some versions can revive your machine. Plus, Linux is a favorite among power users who love customization. Sound familiar?
What if you do nothing?
If you stick with what you have and keep using Vivaldi 6.9 remember, you’re entering a situation with no future updates. This is true for any web browser, since no software can continue to operate safely on outdated systems. There is an increasing potential for new vulnerabilities. It’s like locking your front door but leaving the windows wide open. We do not recommend this from a security standpoint, but if you decide to, at least be aware of the risks!
If it was up to us, Vivaldi would support every operating system under the sun.
We believe in giving users the freedom to use the web their way, whether your machine is brand-new or a vintage powerhouse. But tech giants have different plans, pushing everyone toward newer, shinier things. We’ll keep fighting for a web that’s open, secure, and built on user choice, not corporate agendas. Until then, we’re here to help you find solutions and keep browsing with a powerful browser that can adapt to you, not the other way around.
Further reading
If you are interested in the topic of supporting older operating systems, you may also wish to read our previous article, when a similar situation occurred for users on older Windows versions.