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Well, it depends on your point of view. Microsoft, and Linux (just the kernel I'm talking about here), have both decided the point of an OS is to run programs,
by CJefferson 9y ago
Well, it depends on your point of view.
Microsoft, and Linux (just the kernel I'm talking about here), have both decided the point of an OS is to run programs, so with each update they both heroic efforts to not break userspace, often adding code just to make sure old programs that did weird things don't break.
Apple have decided to go a different route, and leave a trail of programs just a few years old that are forever unrunnable, as they won't even distribute old copies of their OSes. However, it seems many users are willing to take that choice, as we can see from their success.
- dng88 9y agoDepend upon how old. Not sure as I still can download their OSes in App store. Not that I trust Apple to keep there forever and I download them from time to time. But I think I have all since I can get it from App Store. Good to run them in VM as well these days. Strangely you do not have Sierra or High Sierra there. * And keeping old program running as meant all old bugs and old virus run as well. Not sure I live it. * But as long as you have more than one major OS, it is fine to have different approach. Not that you cannot run Sierra now so your program cannot run. Just a deadline instead of we are still using Win 7 after 6 years. Or Win XP per Wanna Cry.
- saagarjha 9y ago> they won't even distribute old copies of their OSes They do, actually; if you bought a copy it should be available in the App Store. They even sell physical installers for old operating systems: https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MC573Z/A/mac-os-x-106-snow-leopard https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MC573Z/A/mac-os-x-106-sno...
- djrogers 9y agoThat was the policy for several years, but this year they changed it - the Sierra installer is no longer in the App Store after you upgrade.