macOS Catalina (macOS 10.15) requires apps to be 64-bit. That means older 32-bit apps will no longer run.
- InDesign CS6 is 32-bit so it will not work on macOS Catalina.
- Illustrator CS6 is 64-bit, but I’ve read that it has 32-bit dependencies so I’m not sure if it work on macOS Catalina (I have not tested it myself).
- Photoshop CS6 is 64-bit and should work on macOS Catalina.
Adobe’s Creative Suite was retired years ago and is not supported. If you want to continue using Adobe’s creative apps (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, etc.) you must join the Creative Cloud or remain on an older version of macOS (Mojave or prior).
Disclosure: If you make a purchase using my links to Adobe’s website, I may earn a commission (which helps support me).
Time to Move On
If you’re still using InDesign CS6 or Illustrator CS6 you have to make a change. You have two options:
- Join the Creative Cloud. You get access to the same apps you’re used to (but newer versions). Apps are installed locally on your computer and your access files the same way you did in CS6.
- Stop using Adobe apps and switch to something else. While this may be an option for casual users, it won’t be so easy for professional users that have to exchange files with other workers/clients and are used to the extensive feature set typically found in Adobe apps.
Other Options?
If you’re looking for alternatives to Adobe apps, here are some to check out:
- Affinity Publisher (Mac and PC): Page layout app (similar to Adobe InDesign) for designing print layouts such as books, magazines, etc.
- Affinity Designer (Mac, PC, and iPad): Vector design app (similar to Adobe Illustrator) for designing websites, apps, UI/UX, etc.
- Affinity Photo (Mac, PC, and iPad): Photo editor (similar to Photoshop).
Which Creative Cloud Plan is Right For You?
Adobe has a free 7-day Creative Cloud trial. Yes you read that right, only 7 days. After that you must decide what apps you want:
- Full Creative Cloud: You get access to essentially all of Adobe’s creative apps: InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Lightroom, Acrobat, XD, After Effects, Premiere, and many more.
- Photography Plan: (Also good for web designers who only want Photoshop). You get Photoshop and Lightroom for a lower monthly cost.
- Single App: You can get apps individually. Prices vary depending on the app.