Podcast Summary: Hands-On Tech 227: Using Older Windows Software on a Modern Mac
Podcast Information:
- Title: All TWiT.tv Shows (Audio)
- Host: TWiT (Micah Sargent)
- Episode: Hands-On Tech 227: Using Older Windows Software on a Modern Mac
- Release Date: August 3, 2025
Introduction and User Query
In this episode of Hands-On Tech, Micah Sargent addresses a listener's query regarding the feasibility of running outdated Windows-based software on a new MacBook Air M4. Joe, the listener, expressed his concern about transferring his legitimate copies of Lightroom 3 and Photoshop CS3 from his Lenovo laptop to his newly acquired MacBook Air M4, emphasizing their integral role in his photography workflow.
Challenges of Running Older Windows Software on Modern Mac
Micah begins by acknowledging the complexity of transitioning between major operating systems and hardware architectures. He explains that directly installing Windows versions of Lightroom 3 and Photoshop CS3 on a MacBook Air M4 is not feasible due to several compatibility issues:
Micah Sargent [02:15]: "Because even if you were running Windows on ARM, you would still probably have issues trying to run this older software."
The primary challenges highlighted include:
- ARM Architecture: The MacBook Air M4 utilizes an ARM-based M4 chip, whereas the older software like Lightroom 3 and Photoshop CS3 was designed for x86 processors.
- Software Compatibility: These programs, dating back to 2007-2008, lack the necessary compatibility frameworks to operate smoothly on modern virtualization platforms.
- Graphics Acceleration: The older software may not effectively leverage the advanced graphics capabilities of the M4 chip, leading to sluggish performance even if the software runs.
Virtualization Solutions
Micah explores the possibility of using virtualization software to bridge the gap between the old Windows applications and the new Mac hardware. He mentions two popular virtualization options:
- Parallels Desktop
- VMware Fusion
Micah Sargent [03:00]: "Maybe virtualization would work. Maybe you could try running Windows in a virtual machine."
However, he cautions that virtualization may not yield the desired results due to the aforementioned compatibility and performance issues. Additionally, running virtualized Windows on an ARM-based Mac introduces another layer of complexity, as the virtualization software must effectively emulate the x86 architecture for the older applications to function.
Compatibility and Performance Issues
Continuing his analysis, Micah delves deeper into the potential pitfalls of virtualization:
- Compatibility Limitations: The virtualization software itself may not support the installation and efficient operation of legacy software like Lightroom 3 and Photoshop CS3.
- Performance Degradation: Even if the software manages to run, the performance is likely to be hindered by the overhead of virtualization and the lack of optimized graphics support.
Micah Sargent [04:45]: "Graphic acceleration that the M4 has is probably not going to work with this old software either... it probably would not be worth it in the end."
Alternative Solutions and Recommendations
Recognizing the hurdles in maintaining the old software environment, Micah offers Joe several alternative solutions:
-
Upgrade to Adobe Creative Cloud:
- Pros: Access to the latest versions of Photoshop and Lightroom, ensuring compatibility with modern macOS and hardware.
- Cons: Subscription-based model, which may be financially unappealing to some users.
Micah Sargent [07:10]: "Given the age of your software, could I interest you in upgrading to the Creative Cloud subscription?"
-
Consider One-Time Purchase Alternatives:
- Luminar Neo
- Capture One
- Affinity Photo
- GIMP (Free Option)
These alternatives provide modern photo editing capabilities without the recurring costs associated with subscriptions.
-
Dual Setup Approach:
- Maintain the Lenovo Laptop: Continue using the existing Lenovo laptop for running Lightroom 3 and Photoshop CS3.
- Adopt Modern Tools on Mac: Experiment with modern applications on the MacBook Air M4 to gradually transition workflows.
Micah Sargent [10:20]: "Keep the Lenovo around, keep using it for these specific programs and then dip your toe into some of these modern programs."
Possible Adobe Support Route
Micah suggests reaching out to Adobe Support as a potential, albeit uncertain, avenue for resolving the issue. He posits the possibility of transferring licenses to the Mac versions of the software, though he remains skeptical about its likelihood.
Micah Sargent [06:50]: "You could maybe possibly use your license with the Mac versions. Again, I don't know that that's going to be the case, but it's worth checking and asking Adobe support you must."
Conclusion
Micah concludes by empathizing with Joe's predicament—recognizing the investment of time and resources into the older software—and reiterates that while virtualization might offer a theoretical solution, practical implementation is fraught with challenges. He encourages exploring the recommended alternatives and staying connected for updates if Joe discovers a viable solution.
Notable Quotes:
- Micah Sargent [02:15]: "Because even if you were running Windows on ARM, you would still probably have issues trying to run this older software."
- Micah Sargent [03:00]: "Maybe virtualization would work. Maybe you could try running Windows in a virtual machine."
- Micah Sargent [04:45]: "Graphic acceleration that the M4 has is probably not going to work with this old software either... it probably would not be worth it in the end."
- Micah Sargent [07:10]: "Given the age of your software, could I interest you in upgrading to the Creative Cloud subscription?"
- Micah Sargent [10:20]: "Keep the Lenovo around, keep using it for these specific programs and then dip your toe into some of these modern programs."
- Micah Sargent [06:50]: "You could maybe possibly use your license with the Mac versions. Again, I don't know that that's going to be the case, but it's worth checking and asking Adobe support you must."
Final Thoughts
This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for users grappling with the transition from older Windows-based software to modern Mac systems. Through Micah Sargent's detailed explanations and pragmatic recommendations, listeners gain valuable insights into the technical challenges and viable alternatives, empowering them to make informed decisions about their software workflows.