LockDown Browser on macOS Sonoma 14 - Full Compatibility Guide
macOS Sonoma 14.0 through 14.7 is fully supported by LockDown Browser 2.0.5 and later. The major Sonoma-specific change: 14.4+ requires admin password during install (not just user password). Camera permission resets occasionally observed after 14.4 → 14.5 update. Otherwise stable across the LDBypass test fleet.
Status by Sonoma version
| Sonoma version | LDB minimum | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14.0 / 14.1 / 14.2 | 2.0.5 | ✓ | Stable |
| 14.3 / 14.3.1 | 2.0.5 | ✓ | Stable |
| 14.4 / 14.4.1 | 2.0.5 | ✓ with caveat | Admin password now required for Screen Recording grant |
| 14.5 | 2.0.5 | ✓ | Camera permission reset reports observed |
| 14.6 / 14.6.1 | 2.0.5 | ✓ Best Sonoma | LDBypass primary test version |
| 14.7 / 14.7.1 | 2.0.5 | ✓ | Extended support cycle; security updates only |
What changed in Sonoma vs Ventura
- Sonoma 14.4 admin password requirement. Before 14.4, LDB's installer accepted the user's normal password. From 14.4, the installer specifically requires an admin password (which on personal Macs is the same as your login password, but distinct on managed Macs). See admin password page.
- TCC stricter at 14.5. Camera permission for LDB occasionally reset after the 14.4 → 14.5 minor update. Symptom: webcam check fails first launch after the update. Fix: re-grant Camera permission.
- WebKit version bump. Sonoma 14.6 shipped Safari 18 / WebKit 18; cosmetic improvements, no LDB-specific impact.
- Continuity Camera improvements (14.0+). Sonoma is the first macOS where Continuity Camera (iPhone as webcam) works reliably with LDB Monitor.
Recommendations
- Update to 14.6 or later if you're on 14.0-14.4. The TCC fixes in 14.6 resolve several edge-case permission issues.
- Don't upgrade to 14.7 from 14.6 right before an exam. The minor update may briefly reset some TCC entries; allow 24 hours to verify LDB still works.
- 14.7 is end-of-life for new features - Apple's focus has shifted to Sequoia + Tahoe. 14.7 receives security updates only.
Should you upgrade Sonoma to Sequoia?
Recommendation: yes if your Mac supports Sequoia and you have time to verify (24 hours minimum). Sequoia's improvements:
- Better LDB performance per our benchmark.
- More predictable TCC behavior (the 30-day re-prompt is annoying but consistent).
- Continued macOS security updates.
Don't upgrade in the week before exams.
Frequently asked questions
Does Sonoma 14.4's admin password requirement apply to non-admin users on managed Macs?
Yes - that's exactly when it's a problem. Managed Mac users without admin rights can't install LDB themselves. See <a href="/lockdown-browser-mac/install/admin-password-required">admin password page</a> for paths through.
Why did my LDB stop working after the Sonoma 14.4.1 update?
Most likely Camera or Screen Recording TCC permission was reset. Re-grant via System Settings → Privacy & Security. See <a href="/lockdown-browser-mac/permissions/reset-permissions">reset permissions</a>.