[SOLVED] Install Sonoma 14.2.1 on Ventura 13.6.3 Apple M1

Hi all,

I'm seeking support to resolve issues I'm encountering with Parallels Desktop. Currently, I'm using Parallels Desktop 19 for Mac Business Edition (version 19.2.1 - build 54832), and my operating system is macOS Ventura 16.6.3 running on an Apple MacBook Pro M1.

The problem arises when I attempt to install any Sonoma version as a virtual machine (VM) inside Parallels. I've tried versions 14.3 and 14.2.1, but both attempts fail without providing a specific error message. Instead, a dialog appears saying, "A software update is required to install macOS in a virtual machine." Clicking the "Install" button results in a failure with the message, "Installation failed / Can't install the software because it is not currently available from the Software Update server."

I've followed the steps outlined in the Parallels knowledge base article (https://kb.parallels.com/125561) multiple times on different days, but the issue persists.

Additionally, I attempted an alternative approach by downloading Sonoma from the App Store, converting it to an ISO file using Parallels, and trying to install it. However, this method also fails, with Parallels indicating that the ISO file is not intended for ARM devices and contains an installer for Intel only. This is perplexing because the downloaded Sonoma installer from the App Store works flawlessly on my M1 MacBook.

Any assistance you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

 

Of course it is 13.6.3 not 16.6.3 - i can not find how to edit a thread text.

 

I reseted my Macbook and installed Parallels again, now it works with the IPSW files. I am using MIST (https://github.com/ninxsoft/Mist) and Mr Macintosh (https://mrmacintosh.com/apple-silicon-m1-full-macos-restore-ipsw-firmware-files-database/) to get the ISPW files. Some of the MIST ispw files do not work with Parallels, resulting in an "Unable to detect Operating System" error.