Notarization and related requirements shouldn’t stop simple apps, but if you need to use apps which load external code modules, like the high-end charting and analysis app Igor Pro, they don’t fit Apple’s new security model well, and many have either limited functionality or still won’t run properly. If you’re still reliant on apps or any other software which uses 32-bit code, then you’ll only be able to run them in a Virtual Machine, or by dual-booting your Mac. Its two biggest problems for anyone upgrading haven’t changed, and will only get more challenging with 10.16: loss of 32-bit software support, and the security requirements imposed on executable code including notarization. With Catalina, there can’t be a clear answer. Is it safe to go ahead, in readiness for macOS 10.16, or are there still showstoppers which will make you regret it?
Now’s the time that those who’ve been cautious, and let the early adopters find all the bugs in Catalina, consider whether to upgrade.
