Is there a way to return to the old system settings app?

Unfortunately no. The new System Settings screen has replaced the previous System Preferences window and there's no way to get it back.

You can offer Apple feedback about it, and if enough people do so, they may change it back or offer an option to switch between the layouts. Click here-> Feedback - macOS - Apple

No there is not a way unless enough people say something about it otherwise the only way to change it back is going back to MacOS 12.6.1 (Monterey) or before

Q - " Is there a way to return to the old system settings app? "

A - To achieve that specific functionality would required Downgrading to a previous version of macOS the computer Qualifies to run

A - Notation, if the computer Originally came pre-installed with Ventura - sorry but that is a far back as this computer can downgrade to - Ventura

dialabrain wrote:

Phil0124 wrote:

You can offer Apple feedback about it, and if enough people do so, they may change it back or offer an option to switch between the layouts.

I wouldn't hold my breath. 😎

I wouldn't either. But stranger things have happened. 😜

Phil0124 wrote:

You can offer Apple feedback about it, and if enough people do so, they may change it back or offer an option to switch between the layouts.

I wouldn't hold my breath. 😎

Lycoming360 wrote:

Is there a way to return to the old system settings app?

I get it that Apple wants to "unify" MacOS and iOS, BUT I do not use my Mac the same way I use my phone. Totally different tasks to accomplish.

To that point, there is no reason to use an iPhone screen as the basis for System settings -- which on the Mac greatly benefit from the larger screen size and ability to spread icons out horizontally to avoid scrolling.

That is a very valid point. Why should we spend money on a Mac, if it is mimicking an iPhone? If I have to use a Mac like an iPhone, it would be the better bargain to buy an iPhone.

When you send feedback, explain, how the changed System Settings are making it more difficult to work with your Mac and to accomplish, what you need to do.

Well, there are approximately 100 million Mac users, so if 50 million plus sent in feedback, Apple might consider it.

Yeah like the only way that would work is if enough people said something about the new updated settings otherwise not

Thankfully my Macs running Ventura work as they always have. Just with a few more features.