iATKOS | United Kingdom

Target Audience: Users with Intermediate Technical Skill Level

Objective:

To install macOS on a Dell XPS 13 9365 2-in-1 laptop as part of an iATKOS Project.

Preliminary Considerations:

Given the proprietary nature of Apple's software and the unique hardware configurations of PCs, creating a Hackintosh can be complex and may not offer complete functionality. It's also essential to understand that Apple's software license agreement does not permit installation on non-Apple hardware.

Research and Preparation:

1. Compatibility Check:

   • Verify the compatibility of the Dell XPS 9365's components with macOS, including the CPU, GPU, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other peripherals.

2. Gather Information:

   • Look for existing guides or forum posts from users who have attempted or succeeded in installing macOS on the same or similar Dell XPS models.
   • Check out communities such as tonymacx86, Reddit's r/hackintosh, and InsanelyMac for shared experiences and EFI folders.

3. Backup Important Data:

   • Ensure all important data on your Dell XPS 9365 is fully backed up before starting the Hackintosh process.

Installation Steps:

1. Create a Bootable macOS USB Drive:

   • Obtain access to a Mac to download the macOS installer from the App Store.
   • Use a tool like Balena Etcher or UniBeast to create a bootable installer on a USB drive.

2. Configure BIOS:

   • Disable Secure Boot, Fast Boot, and VT-d in the BIOS.
   • Switch SATA operation to AHCI mode.
   • Enable UEFI boot mode and disable Legacy options.

3. Prepare EFI Bootloader:

   • Use OpenCore or Clover as your bootloader.
   • Prepare an EFI folder with necessary kexts (drivers) and patches suitable for your hardware, such as VoodooI2C for touch input and WhateverGreen for graphics.

4. Boot from USB and Install macOS:

   • Connect the USB drive to your Dell XPS 9365 and boot from it.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to install macOS.

5. Post-Installation Configuration:

   • Once macOS is installed, run through the post-installation process using a tool like OpenCore Configurator or Clover Configurator.
   • Copy the EFI folder from the USB to the EFI partition of your installed macOS SSD.
   • Install necessary kexts for audio, network, and other functions.

6. Troubleshooting:

   • If you encounter issues, use verbose mode (-v boot flag) to identify where the process is failing.
   • Look for device-specific fixes and patches from the Hackintosh community.

Feedback and Continuous Learning:

• Document your process and any issues you face, as this can help others.
• Share your success or seek further assistance in Hackintosh forums if needed.

Reminder:

• A Hackintosh project involves a significant time investment and may not yield a fully stable system.
• Regularly check for updates from the Hackintosh community regarding macOS updates and their impact on your system.

Creating a Hackintosh can be rewarding but also challenging, especially with devices like the Dell XPS 13 9365 2-in-1, which may have proprietary hardware that's difficult to support in macOS. Proceed with caution and patience, and seek community support when needed.