retroactive ☆

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Description:
Run Apple apps on incompatible OS versions

Type: Cask | Latest Version: 2.1@0 | Tracked Since: Dec 28, 2025

Links: Homepage | formulae.brew.sh

Category: System utilities

Tags: retroactive legacy itunes aperture macos compatibility

Install: brew install --cask retroactive

About:
Retroactive is a tool that allows users to continue using legacy Apple applications like iTunes, Aperture, and iPhoto on newer versions of macOS where they would normally be incompatible. It works by patching these applications to function properly on operating systems like Catalina, Big Sur, and Monterey. This enables users to maintain access to their existing media libraries and photo collections without needing to downgrade their system or find alternative software.

Key Features:

Patches legacy Apple apps (iTunes, Aperture, iPhoto) for modern macOS
Preserves access to existing media and photo libraries
Simple, guided installation process
Supports macOS Catalina through Monterey

Use Cases:

Continuing to use the classic iTunes interface for music management
Accessing old Aperture or iPhoto libraries on a new Mac
Avoiding the transition to Apple's newer, less feature-rich apps

Alternatives:

Apple Music / Photos – Native Apple replacements, but lack the advanced features and library management of the older apps
Third-party media players – Alternatives like Swinsian or Clementine can replace iTunes but won't preserve the full Apple ecosystem integration

Version History

Detected	Version	Rev	Change	Commit
Sep 15, 2025 1:02pm	2.1	0	VERSION_BUMP	bddb3e96
Aug 21, 2025 7:28pm	2.1	0	VERSION_BUMP	b6fe5fd3