BetterDisplay v4 upgrade FAQ

This FAQ explains the license rules for BetterDisplay 4, including older keys and activations carried over from v3. For the current major version, read the BetterDisplay v5 upgrade FAQ; a license's eligibility can differ between v4 and v5.

At a glance

Your situation What it means for BetterDisplay 4
Pro purchased on or after July 15, 2024 Your license covers v4.
Earlier Pro purchase from the v1/v2 era The license is outdated for a new v4 activation.
In-app update of an already activated v3 installation Pro remains active, with a warning if the license is outdated.
Fresh or deactivated v4 installation An outdated key cannot newly activate it.

Compatibility and eligibility

Which macOS versions can run v4?

BetterDisplay 4 supports Apple silicon and Intel Macs running macOS Ventura, Sonoma, Sequoia or Tahoe. Later v4 maintenance releases also include compatibility work for newer macOS versions; check the release notes for the exact build you choose.

Is v4 a free Pro upgrade?

Yes, for purchases on or after July 15, 2024, including purchases made while v3 was current. Earlier v1/v2-era licenses are considered outdated for v4. A new license is required for a fresh v4 activation with those older purchases.

Is the upgrade free for non-Pro users?

Yes. Non-business users can continue using free features. Business use beyond the trial requires a Pro license, including when only free features are used.

Is there an upgrade discount?

There is no separate cheaper upgrade license or upgrade discount. The licenses classified as outdated for the v4 upgrade had already received a complimentary major-version upgrade and more than a year of updates.

Does a new purchase through an older app cover v4?

Yes. A purchase today is a current license, whether made on the website or through an older app's checkout. It covers v5 and earlier versions, including v4; you do not need to purchase a special v4 key.

Can I activate an older version with a new license?

Yes. Current purchases also cover earlier versions, so you can stay with the app version required by your macOS or hardware.

Can the July 15, 2024 cutoff be extended for me?

The published policy does not make individual exceptions for purchases shortly before the cutoff. An existing activation can remain usable after an in-app update, but its outdated status still applies.

Existing and new activations

Will updating from v3 immediately deactivate Pro?

No. Updating an already activated installation in-app preserves Pro access. If the license is outdated, the app menu and Settings > Pro show a warning, and you can purchase a current license after updating.

What if I am not ready to buy another license?

You can continue using an earlier version supported by your license. An activated v3 installation updated in-app to v4 can also technically retain Pro with the outdated-license notice, provided you do not deactivate it. The license terms still determine which versions your purchase covers.

Why does a clean or deactivated v4 installation reject my old key?

Outdated v1/v2-era keys cannot newly activate v4. You can purchase a current license or return to v3. The published v4 FAQ states that v3 still accepts v1 keys as a compatibility accommodation, even though v1-to-v3 coverage is outside the strict license terms; v2 licenses cover v3 through the complimentary upgrade arrangement.

Can I reduce the outdated-license warning?

Purchasing a current license is the preferred solution. In v4, open Settings > Menu > Additional menu options and enable Hide warnings in the menu bar. The close button on the warning in Settings > Pro makes that notice less prominent. These options affect the notices, not license coverage.

Do not deactivate the app if you intend to retain its existing outdated activation. For the renamed option in the current interface, see the v5 FAQ.

Upgrade policy and compatibility options

Why can a major version require another purchase?

BetterDisplay licenses are perpetual for the major versions they cover and include at least a year of updates. Historically, v1 users received v2 at no extra cost, v2 users received v3, and v3 users received v4. The new release does not remove the usefulness of an earlier version or cause its license to expire.

Can I use Tahoe without purchasing the v4 upgrade?

BetterDisplay v3.5.6b was provided with improved Tahoe compatibility, addressing the automatic-brightness issue on Apple silicon discussed in the original FAQ. It offers an older-version option without requiring a v4 license. Review the release notes and test it with your setup; it does not include all later features or fixes.

Does a v4 purchase also cover v5?

Yes. BetterDisplay 5 is now available, and all purchases made while v4 was current qualify under the January 1, 2025 cutoff. The general policy also guarantees at least one year of upgrades from a Pro purchase, including major releases within that period. See the v5 FAQ for current activation and system requirements.

Is long-term use with an outdated warning permitted?

An existing activation remaining technically usable does not change the license terms: an outdated license does not cover v4. The original policy offers some flexibility for non-business users unable to purchase an upgrade immediately, but asks users who can afford the upgrade to support development by purchasing it. Businesses must comply with the licensing requirements.

Where can I see the original upgrade terms?

Open the published license statement and use its edited history to review earlier revisions, including the provision that licenses cover the current major version. The Guide's terms article presents the current statement.

Do early BetterDummy backers receive free upgrades?

Yes. People on the Early Backers List receive lifetime upgrades at no additional cost. Contact the developer with the original contribution receipt to request the appropriate coupon code.