Installing the Latest macOS on an HP 250 G6 Hackintosh (Currently on Big Sur)

GUIDE STEP BY STEP:

If you are currently running macOS Big Sur on your HP 250 G6 Hackintosh, you can upgrade to the latest version of macOS (Sonoma) with the proper preparation. Here's how to do it:

1. Check Compatibility of macOS Sonoma

• CPU: The HP 250 G6 typically comes with Intel 7th Gen (Kaby Lake) processors, which are compatible with macOS Sonoma, but it will require proper configuration.
• Graphics: Depending on your model, you might have Intel HD Graphics 620. Make sure you're using updated WhateverGreen.kext and Lilu.kext to ensure graphics support.
• Wi-Fi: If you're using Intel Wi-Fi, you'll need the itlwm.kext to enable Wi-Fi. Alternatively, you can use a macOS-compatible Wi-Fi card like a Broadcom chip (e.g., BCM94360).

2. Prepare OpenCore/Clover for the Upgrade

• Update OpenCore/Clover: Ensure that you have the latest version of OpenCore (preferably 0.9.x) or Clover (if you're still using Clover). Sonoma may require updated bootloaders for proper functionality.
• Update Kexts: Download the latest versions of these essential kexts:
  • Lilu.kext
  • WhateverGreen.kext
  • AppleALC.kext (for audio)
  • VirtualSMC.kext (or FakeSMC.kext if using Clover)
  • itlwm.kext (if using Intel Wi-Fi) or AirportBrcmFixup.kext (for Broadcom Wi-Fi cards)
• Update Drivers: Ensure that the drivers for your bootloader (such as OpenRuntime.efi for OpenCore) are up to date.

3. Download macOS Sonoma Installer

• Option 1: Use the Software Update feature in macOS Big Sur:
  • Go to System Preferences > Software Update.
  • If Sonoma is available, you can download it directly. However, on Hackintosh systems, this process sometimes fails due to SMBIOS or hardware configuration issues.
• Option 2: Download macOS Sonoma from the Mac App Store or create a bootable installer:
  • Download the installer from a compatible Mac or use a third-party website.
  • Create a bootable USB installer using Terminal:

    bash
    Copy code
    sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ Sonoma.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/MyUSB
    

4. Backup Your Data

• Before proceeding, back up your important files using Time Machine or any other backup method. This will ensure that your data is safe if anything goes wrong during the upgrade.

5. SMBIOS Configuration

• Update SMBIOS: Ensure that your SMBIOS is compatible with macOS Sonoma. If you're using OpenCore, adjust the SMBIOS in config.plist. For an HP 250 G6 with an Intel 7th Gen processor, MacBookPro14,1 or MacBookPro15,2 might be a good choice.
• Use ProperTree or OpenCore Configurator to adjust your config.plist and generate a new SMBIOS. Ensure the serial number, MLB, and ROM are unique.

6. Installation Process

• Method 1: In-place Upgrade:
  • If you've successfully downloaded the macOS Sonoma installer via Software Update, simply launch the installer and follow the prompts. Ensure that you have the correct EFI folder configuration before rebooting.
• Method 2: Clean Install via Bootable USB:
  • Insert the bootable USB installer into your HP 250 G6.
  • Boot into your BIOS and ensure the USB drive is set as the primary boot device.
  • Use the OpenCore/Clover bootloader to select the USB installer.
  • Follow the on-screen prompts to install macOS Sonoma on your desired partition.
  • Important: Ensure you boot from your USB with OpenCore/Clover after the first reboot to continue the installation.

7. Post-Installation

• Kext and Patch Application: After installation, boot into macOS Sonoma and apply any post-installation patches required for your HP 250 G6 hardware (such as graphics or audio fixes).
  • Use Hackintool or Kext Utility to install the updated kexts into /Library/Extensions.
• Wi-Fi and Audio Configuration: If your Wi-Fi or audio doesn't work, ensure the correct kexts are installed and configured in your config.plist.

8. Test and Fine-tune

• Check Functionality: Test all the critical functions—Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, audio, graphics acceleration, USB ports, and sleep/wake functionality.
• Fix any issues: If any components are not functioning properly, adjust your config.plist or reinstall missing kexts.
• Reset NVRAM: If you encounter any issues booting, try resetting NVRAM from the OpenCore boot picker.

Conclusion:

Upgrading your HP 250 G6 to macOS Sonoma requires updating your bootloader, kexts, and ensuring hardware compatibility. By following these steps and carefully configuring your EFI folder, you should be able to successfully install and run the latest macOS on your Hackintosh.

Make sure to test your setup thoroughly after installation to ensure that all hardware components work as expected.