I want to learn how to re-purpose old Mac computers by replacing iOS with Linux. If you have an old Mac computer relegated to the closet or attic that can no longer be updated by Apple...
1. Send it to me (address provided via private message).
2. I will experiment learning how to replace iOS with Linux.
3. If it works and you want it back, pay for the return shipping.
I have no interest in selling computers. I just don't want to spend my money on shipping to fix other people's computers. 
A known list of computers that can be updated; there may be others:
MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2009 – Mid 2010)
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo
RAM: 2–8 GB DDR3
Graphics: NVIDIA 9400M (2009) or Intel HD (2010)
Linux status: ✅ Excellent — modern lightweight distros (like Xubuntu, Linux Lite, or Debian LXQt) work well.
Notes: Wi-Fi and trackpad work fine with Broadcom and Synaptics drivers; fan control handled automatically on most kernels.
MacBook Pro (2009–2012)
CPU: Core 2 Duo or early i5/i7
Graphics: NVIDIA 9600M GT / Intel HD / AMD Radeon (depending on year and model)
Linux status: ✅ Very good — 2010 models (Core i5/i7) are ideal.
Notes: The 15-inch 2010 MBP with dual GPUs needs a tweak to disable the failing NVIDIA chip (nouveau.modeset=0 or nv_disable=1). Otherwise very stable.
MacBook Air (Late 2010–2011)
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo (2010) or i5/i7 (2011)
Linux status: ✅ Good — newer kernels handle SSD, trackpad, and suspend well.
Notes: Earlier Airs (2008–2009) have poor driver support; skip those.
Mac mini (2009–2012)
CPU: Core 2 Duo or i5/i7
Linux status: ✅ Excellent — one of the easiest Mac models to convert.
Notes: Works beautifully as a small server or media center (LibreELEC, Debian, Ubuntu Server).
iMac (2009–2011)
CPU: Core 2 Duo or i5/i7
Graphics: NVIDIA/AMD discrete GPUs
Linux status: ⚠️ Mixed — runs well but beware of GPU issues (especially AMD Radeon HD 5xxx/6xxx).
Notes: Use an LTS distro with an older kernel if you see screen flicker or fan issues.
Mac Pro (2008–2012 "cheese grater")
CPU: Xeon
Linux status: ✅ Excellent — extremely stable with Linux.
Notes: Many people still use these as servers or workstations. Replace the GPU with a standard PC card for full acceleration.
The displays, audio, and build quality of iMacs and MacBooks circa 2008 - 2012 were excellent. It's a shame so many have been ground up as e-waste or are just sitting unused. There often ARE options where they can be used.
