Can't download Final Cut Pro onto new-er macbook Pro

Question

Level 1

4 points

Can't download Final Cut Pro onto new-er macbook Pro

I purchased Final Cut Pro in 2018, and it's installed on my 2013 Macbook Pro. I have a 2017 Macbook Pro that does not have it installed. Both Macbooks run OS Catalina.

I believe my 2017 mac can only update to Ventura (OS13), but Final Cut Pro in the app store says Sonoma (OS14) is required, and won't download.

I have tried to airdrop Final Cut Pro from 2013 mac to 2017 mac, but doesn't open. Not sure how to solve...

MacBook Pro 15″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Aug 20, 2025 12:07 AM

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Answer 1

Aug 20, 2025 04:09 AM in response to kainosjf

Which version of Catalina exactly (10.15.?)

Which version of FCP exactly?

If both macs have the same version of Catalina, the version of FCP that works in one must work on the other.

Maybe there was some issue with the Airdrop and the copy was not complete.

I'd copy FCP to an external drive or thumb drive (formatted as APFS or MacOS Extended), and then copy from there to the other mac.

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Answer 2

terryb

Level 4

3,112 points

Aug 20, 2025 10:53 AM in response to kainosjf

In addition to the excellent advice from Ian and Luis, I'd try making a zip of the FCP application before an AirDrop transfer. It's a huge application with lots of hidden files. Control-click on the FCP app and choose "Compress Final Cut Pro"

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Answer 3

Aug 20, 2025 03:04 AM in response to kainosjf

Have you tried control-clicking the copied FCP and selecting "Open" from the contextual menu?

Alternately copy it across using an SD card or plugin hard drive.

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