Older Macs are unable to upgrade to Windows 10 version 1903, at least for now

What you need to know

  • Mac devices from before 2012 may be unable to update to Windows 10 1903.
  • Newer Mac devices using outdated versions of Apple Boot Camp or Windows Support drivers are also affected.
  • Microsoft is working on a resolution that is estimated to ship in late July.

Users trying to update certain Mac devices to the latest version of Windows 10 might run into compatibility updates (via WindowsLatest). Specifically, Mac devices from prior to 2012 may run into this issue. Additionally, newer Mac devices that are running outdated versions of Apple Boot Camp or Windows Support drivers will run into the issue. Microsoft outlined the cause of the issue in a blog post:

Mac devices prior to 2012 or newer Mac devices with the older Apple Boot Camp or Windows Support Software drivers have a compatibility hold in place and are unable to update to Windows 10, version 1903. Specifically, devices with MacHALDriver.sys dated September 24, 2011 01:57:09 or older in Windows\system32\drivers are affected."

As a result of the issue, devices may either be unable to install the update or could run into compatibility issues.

The post from Microsoft states that users may be able to work around the issue by updating their Apple Boot Camp Windows Support Software drivers.

Microsoft is working on a fix for the issue and estimates the solution will be available late in July.

Portable (and affordable) power accessories we love

Each and every one of these charging gadgets will keep your favorite gear and gadgets going for longer, and none of them costs more than $30.

VisionTek 8,000 mAh micro-USB power bank ($13 at Dell)

This compact dual-output powerbank can speedily recharge any and all your devices, thanks to a two-amp "fast charge feature," using its micro-USB out port. Its simple design includes an LED indicator, and it costs about as much as a single ticket to the movies.

Panasonic eneloop AA batteries (From $13 at Dell)

Panasonic's rechargeable batteries are among the best available, and just a couple of them will keep your favorite remote, mice or other peripherals powered up when you need them. They're also eco. And the company's affordable charger fits and charges both AA and AAA batteries at the same time.

Belkin Qi Wireless Charging Pad ($30 at Dell)

This unobtrusive Qi wireless charging pad looks good (and kind of like a UFO …) and easily charges all your Qi-compatible device up to 5W. Its LED indicator lights up when you're charging. And it costs just $30.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott brings nearly a decade of experience covering Microsoft and Windows news to Windows Central. He joined our team in 2017 as an app reviewer and now heads up our day-to-day news coverage. If you have a news tip or an app to review, hit him up at sean.endicott@futurenet.com.